FMG's set to begin development of new mining area at Solomon Hub WA

Fortescue Metals Group (FMG) has announced that it is set to commence with the development of the Queens Valley mining area at the Solomon Hub iron ore operations in Western Australia’s Pilbara region following grant of all necessary environmental and heritage approvals.

The $417 million (US$287 million) project will help maintain the production rate of low-alumina Kings Fines product at the mine.

“The Queens mining area development will maintain our highly valued Kings Fines low-alumina sinter fines product which supplies Fortescue’s key customers in China as well as in Japan and Korea,” FMG Chief Executive Officer Elizabeth Gaines said.

The Queens Valley mining area development is located approximately 15 kilometres from the Solomon Hub’s Kings ore processing facility (OPF) and the project will include the construction of an innovative hydraulic barrier. The project will also involve the relocation of mobile maintenance facilities closer to the Queens mining area which will minimise travel distance as well as lower operating costs and provide access to additional tonnes at the Kings OPF.

The Queens development is expected to have a mine life of 10-15 years.

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Source: Fortescue Metals Group; The West Australian; Australian Mining; Finance Nine.com.au