The rare earths processing plant of Arafura Resources (ASX:QRU) has been granted a 'major project' status. This will bring the highest level of scrutiny by the South Australian government to the project.
The proposed plant is to be built near the Spencer Gulf in South Australia. The $ 1 billion plant is expected to generate almost 300 jobs in the region.
Paul Holloway the Mineral Resources Development Minister for the state said that the planning processes must begin as soon as possible. The development Assessment Commission will ask for a full environmental impact statement and the environmental assessment will be scrutinised by the local Whyalla council as well.
The Mayor of Whyalla Jim Pollock said that the Perth Based company has assured the council that the approval process would be transparent and open to scrutiny. He said that the community was very aware of the impact on the environments and ecosystem and it would take a stand on environmental protection.
The Arafura Resources processing plant is also sending a strong message for considering Whyalla as an investment option as per Member for Giles Lyn Breuer. Mrs Breuer thinks that the plant would be a good thing for Whyalla’s future. She is also pleased about the types of jobs involved and the chance for young people to train and receive these job opportunities.