Positive Environment Court Decision announced for Bathurst

Bathurst Resources (NZ) Limited (‘Bathurst’ NZX/ASX: BRL) is pleased to announce the Environment Court has issued a decision advising that “consent is indicated for the Escarpment Mine Project, subject to final minor drafting on conditions of consent.”

The Court has requested further minor amendments to a limited number of the proposed consent conditions. We consider that these amendments will not be difficult to address (the amendments mainly relate to the wording of the conditions addressing rehabilitation and the requirements in respect of the proposed ‘Denniston Permanent Protection Area’ (“DPPA”)). The Company is required to use “best endeavors” to achieve an appropriate protection mechanism for this area. The Court has expressed a preference for the local councils to be the suitable body to certify this has been the case.

Bathurst Managing Director, Hamish Bohannan, said “We are delighted with this positive decision. The Court has made it clear that consent will be forthcoming. The Court has also acknowledged the urgency of the matter by requesting that parties provide a prompt response on conditions (within ten working days). We expect to receive consents as soon as the court has had time to consider that further information. “

Once consent is granted, Bathurst can move into the first stages of operations.

On behalf of Bathurst Resources (NZ) Limited

Hamish Bohannan

Managing Director

Bathurst Environment Court Judgement:

http://img.scoop.co.nz/media/pdfs/1308/Bathurst_Judgement.pdf

ENDS

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