Cannington Life extension project
The EIS process for this project has now concluded.
Project summary
An environmental impact statement (EIS) for the proposed Cannington Life Extension Project has been prepared by BHP Billiton Minerals Pty Ltd (BHP Billiton Cannington). The lead, zinc and silver mine is situated on the Trepell Special Lease, approximately 140 km south of Cloncurry. The project will be undertaken within the boundaries of the current mining lease (ML 90059) andthe mining lease for water extraction (ML 90060).
The proposed project involves progressively converting part of the current underground mining operation to an open cut mining operation. This would result in an extended mining life of up to four years, to 2023. Processing throughput will increase from 3.4 million tonnes per annum (Mtpa) to approximately 4 Mtpa with an average annual concentrate production of 415,000 tonnes.
Additional changes to the current operation would include increased water and power usage, relocation of some surface infrastructure facilities, a waste rock dump, an open pit void, expanded tailings storage facility, and the diversion of an adjacent watercourse. No changes are proposed or required at the Yurbi railhead loading facility, which will adequately support the project. It is anticipated that the Cannington Townsville port facility has adequate capacity, and that there will be no change to port infrastructure.
The EIS assessment report was issued to the proponent in December 2011, completing the EIS process under Chapter 3, Part 1 of the EP Act.
Documents
- EIS assessment report (December 2011)
- Final terms of reference (October 2008)
- Draft terms of reference (May 2008)
- Initial advice statement describing the project (May 2008)
Further information
For further information about the EIS process for the Cannington Life extension project, contact the EIS Coordinator on 13QGOV (13 74 68) or email eis@detsi.qld.gov.au