The Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals has approved Imperial Metal’s permit to expand its Mount Polley mine in the Cariboo region, which will extend the mine’s life by eight years, support local jobs and continue environmental monitoring as part of ongoing regulatory requirements.

The ministers of environment and parks and mining and critical minerals consented to the Springer Pit expansion at Mount Polley mine under the project’s environmental assessment certificate. Following that decision, an amendment to Imperial Metal’s Mines Act permit has been approved, allowing the company to proceed with the expansion under permitting conditions.

The expansion will extend the mine’s operating life until 2033, allowing for pit development and expansion of rock-storage areas. The expansion will occur within the existing mine site footprint.

A joint review of the expansion followed careful assessment of technical reports, co-ordination with the regulatory agencies and consultations with the First Nations. The review ensured the decision meets B.C.’s high standards for environmental protection and public safety.

The Province understands the importance of jobs, community well-being and environmental protection in the Cariboo region. Government staff will continue to work to balance these priorities by carefully overseeing the mine’s operations under the newly amended permit and ensuring compliance with all requirements.