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Highlights:
NSW Planning Secretary approves separation of power line from main application
Bowdens Silver Project regains momentum following legal reassessment
Project remains a significant regional initiative near Mudgee, NSW
Silver Mines Ltd (ASX:SVL), (OTC:SLVMF), a company listed on the ASX 200 index, operates in the mining sector and has recently achieved progress in its Bowdens Silver Project located in central New South Wales. The company secured a favourable response from the New South Wales Planning Secretary regarding a critical infrastructure component of the project, strengthening its forward pathway amid regulatory proceedings.
Transmission Line Determination Supports Continued Development
Silver Mines had approached the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) for clarity on whether the project’s proposed 66-kilovolt transmission line would be evaluated within the scope of the existing State Significant Development (SSD) application for Bowdens, officially referred to as SSD 5765. The Planning Secretary has now confirmed that the transmission line is excluded from this reassessment, aligning with section 4.38(4A) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.
This ruling effectively reinstates the project’s original assessment framework, restoring the direction prior to a legal verdict from the NSW Court of Appeal in the previous year. That court decision had reversed the Independent Planning Commission’s earlier development approval and created uncertainty around the project’s timeline.
Company Welcomes Determination as Critical Milestone
According to company statements, this determination brings clarity to the scope of the development application and underlines the progress of engagements with both governmental bodies and community stakeholders. The company has expressed that, upon reinstatement of development consent by the IPC, it will be ready to proceed with implementation of the Bowdens Silver Project.
The planning process will continue with Silver Mines submitting additional documentation as requested by DPHI to support its final assessment. A decision from the Independent Planning Commission is anticipated in the near term.
Bowdens Recognised as a Globally Significant Silver Asset
Situated near Mudgee, the Bowdens Silver Project is identified as one of the most significant undeveloped silver resources worldwide. The site includes material zinc and lead credits, contributing to its broader strategic importance within the resource sector. The project is also positioned to contribute significantly to regional development, with plans indicating the creation of numerous direct and indirect employment opportunities during its multi-decade operational life.
In support of development, Silver Mines has also expanded drilling activities across the Bowdens site and adjoining areas. These efforts aim to reinforce the strength and scope of the project, aligned with updated planning expectations and regulatory frameworks.
Continued Stakeholder Engagement and Regional Support
Community and local government stakeholders have remained actively involved in the project’s progress, and the company has emphasized a transparent and staged approach to development. The Bowdens initiative continues to be viewed as a major infrastructure and employment contributor to the New South Wales regional economy.
