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Highlights
- VRX Silica shares jumped over 12% following progress on environmental approval for Arrowsmith North.
- VRX’s Arrowsmith North Project has passed the EPA review phase, with conditions accepted by the company.
- One appeal was lodged, and the Office of the Appeals Convenor has completed its investigation and submitted the report to the Minister of Environment.
- Final approval from the Minister is pending, with a decision expected soon.
- Arrowsmith North could create a sustainable silica sand industry, boosting regional jobs and exports.
VRX Silica Limited (ASX:VRX) shares surged over 12% to AUD 0.046 per share on Tuesday morning following an update on the environmental approval process for the Arrowsmith North Silica Sand Project in Western Australia.
In January 2025, the state’s Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) released its assessment report, recommending the project proceed to the Minister of Environment, subject to specific conditions. These conditions were accepted by the company after consultations with the EPA.
The release of the EPA report triggered a three-week appeal period, allowing stakeholders to lodge objections with the Office of the Appeals Convenor (OAC). One such appeal was submitted in late January.
The OAC has now completed its investigation, which included input from the appellant, EPA, VRX Silica, and other relevant parties. The findings have been submitted to the Minister for Environment.
The final decision on the Arrowsmith North proposal under Part IV of the Environmental Protection Act 1986 now lies with the Minister. Although there is no statutory timeline, VRX anticipates a determination in the coming weeks.
Potential of Arrowsmith North
The project has the potential to support a new, sustainable industry in Western Australia, offering significant benefits to both the State and the Mid West region. These include long-term direct and indirect employment, as well as royalty contributions.
VRX continues to highlight the project’s economic fundamentals and its capacity to supply multiple silica sand products to meet growing demand across the Asian market.
