EPA Accepts Santana’s Fast-track Application, Construction Expected Mid-2026
Santana Minerals has secured formal acceptance from New Zealand's Environmental Protection Authority for its Fast-track Approvals application, moving the Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project closer to construction.
- EPA accepts Fast-track Approvals application for Bendigo-Ophir project
- Application moves into expert panel assessment phase
- Decision expected within approximately six months
- Construction targeted to begin mid-2026 pending approval
- Santana focuses on planning and early works ahead of final approval
Regulatory Milestone Achieved
Santana Minerals Limited has reached a significant procedural milestone with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) formally accepting its Fast-track Approvals (FTA) application for the Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project in Central Otago, New Zealand. This acceptance confirms that Santana’s submission meets all necessary lodgement requirements, allowing the project to progress into the critical assessment phase.
Next Steps, Expert Panel Review
The application will now be reviewed by a specially convened expert panel, whose composition will be determined by the Panel Convener. This panel is tasked with thoroughly assessing the project’s environmental and regulatory implications, with a decision expected within approximately six months. The outcome of this review will be pivotal in determining whether the project can proceed to construction.
Strategic Planning Continues
CEO Damian Spring expressed optimism about the progress, highlighting the acceptance as a testament to the strength of the preparatory work undertaken. Santana is already advancing detailed planning efforts, including placing orders for long-lead items and initiating early works programs, positioning the company to move swiftly should the panel’s decision be favourable.
Looking Ahead to Construction
Subject to a positive outcome from the FTA process, Santana anticipates commencing construction of the Bendigo-Ophir Gold Project by mid-2026. This timeline underscores the company’s commitment to advancing the project efficiently while navigating the necessary environmental and regulatory frameworks.
Investors and stakeholders will be watching closely as the expert panel assessment unfolds, with the potential to unlock significant value for Santana Minerals and contribute to New Zealand’s gold mining sector.
Bottom Line?
Santana’s progress through the EPA’s fast-track process sets the stage for a pivotal six months that could define the future of the Bendigo-Ophir project.
Questions in the middle?
- What specific environmental concerns will the expert panel focus on during the assessment?
- How might the panel’s decision impact Santana’s project financing and timelines?
- What contingencies does Santana have if the FTA application faces delays or conditions?
