Terramin Australia (ASX:TZN) has kicked off site preparation activities at its Tala Hamza Zinc Project, 15km southwest of Bejaia in Algeria.
Initial on-ground activities include site access, clearing works, establishing operational and laydown areas as well as early-stage ground preparation near to planned infrastructure locations.
Geotechnical work supporting the final underground mine design is expected to continue due to restored site access.
Tala Hamza is one of the world’s largest, undeveloped zinc and lead deposits, with a 53 million tonne mineral resource at 5.3% zinc and 1.3% lead.
The project has access to established port, rail, road, and power infrastructure. Work is expected to last for 20 years.
Terramin previously acquired the land from the Algerian government for US$30 million (A$42.8 million).
Earlier geotechnical drilling faced delays due to the compulsory relocation of residents within the project area. This process is complete, giving unrestricted site access.
“Resolution of land access constraints, which have hindered progress in recent quarters, now allows us to move forward with on-the-ground activities,” Terramin Executive Chair Bruce Sheng says.
“With site access now secured, the focus shifts to execution as we advance the project towards development readiness.”
Terramin owns 49% of the project through its shareholding in Bejaia Zinc and Lead Spa and retains management rights.
The company plans to continue site preparation, geotechnical, engineering, advance development planning, and stakeholder engagement work.
Terramin Australia is a base and precious metal exploration, evaluation and development company with assets mostly in South Australia and Algeria.
Write to Richard Szabo at Mining.com.au
Images: Terramin Australia
