The State Liberals cautiously welcome the announcement that Rex Minerals Limited has accepted the State Government’s 99 conditions attached to the development of the Hillside Copper Project near Ardrossan.

“Rex Minerals’ acceptance and, more importantly, fulfilment of these conditions is fundamental to environmental and community protection,” said Shadow Minister for Mineral Resources and Energy Dan van Holst Pellekaan.

“This project has the potential to provide important economic investment in the local economy and South Australia more broadly, provided environmental and community concerns are properly dealt with.

“I was pleased to read that Rex Minerals remains mindful of community concerns and that there will be ongoing consultation as the project moves toward a slower than originally proposed construction phase.

“I understand that the tenements offered comprise a Mining Lease and an Extractive Minerals Lease, along with a Miscellaneous Purposes Licence.

“The possibility of mining and minerals processing has the potential to bring new jobs into the region during the construction phase and for the life of the mine.

“Investment in South Australia’s mining sector has been patchy under the Weatherill Labor Government with most proposed projects not proceeding.

“Provided environmental and community concerns are properly addressed this will be a welcome development for the Yorke Peninsula.”