Summary

• The Province has issued Mines Act and Environmental Management Act permits for the New Ingerbelle expansion at the Copper Mountain mine near Princeton
• The work will extend the life of the operation by approximately 12 years, supporting approximately 800 jobs, with most workers living locally
• Project review included engagement with First Nations, local governments and technical regulators

__________

Government has issued Mines Act and Environmental Management Act permits for the New Ingerbelle expansion at the Copper Mountain mine, an operating open-pit copper-gold mine located near Princeton. 

The permits allow the mine to continue operations beyond 2040, supporting jobs and economic stability in the region.

“Mining is an important part of our economy, and the Copper Mountain mine has supported jobs in the Princeton area and southern B.C. for many years,” said Jagrup Brar, Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals. “B.C. is Canada’s largest copper producer. Through projects like this, we can continue to lead the way in responsible growth of the critical minerals sector, while maintaining world-class environmental and safety standards and supporting local communities.”

Copper Mountain currently employs approximately 800 people. The extension will help maintain these jobs for years to come, helping support local communities where the majority of workers are from. This marks the third major mine permit approval in 2026, following the Eskay Creek and Mount Milligan permits issued in January. It is the sixth approval in the past 12 months, including Dome Mountain, the Quintette Mine restart and the Highland Valley Copper expansion.

The New Ingerbelle project involves a three‑phase expansion of the existing Ingerbelle Pit, extending the life of Copper Mountain operations beyond 2040. Over the mine’s extended lifespan, it is projected to produce approximately 750,000 tonnes of copper, 900,000 ounces (25,500 kilograms) of gold, and 5.5 million ounces (156,000 kilograms) of silver based on current reserves. Beyond its mineral output, the expansion will act as an economic engine for British Columbia, generating a projected $11.5 billion in provincial gross domestic product, supporting long‑term jobs and regional economic stability. 

Focused technical review

The Copper Mountain mine is located within the territories of the Upper Similkameen Indian Band (USIB) and the Lower Similkameen Indian Band (LSIB). The permitting review process included engagement with both First Nations, along with technical review by provincial agencies to assess environmental impacts, tailings management and public safety.

The Mines Act and Environmental Management Act applications were reviewed through a co-ordinated process involving the Ministry of Mining and Critical Minerals, the Ministry of Environment and Parks, and members of the Mine Review Committee. Regulatory requirements are now in place for ongoing monitoring, compliance and oversight.

Quotes: 

Tamara Davidson, Minister of Environment and Parks —

“B.C.’s rigorous environmental protections and co-ordinated approach to permitting allows mining projects like Copper Mountain to move forward, while protecting the natural wonders. Extending the life of this mine extends jobs and opportunities to the region, while ensuring the wilderness remains healthy and protected.”

Robert Carter, senior vice-president, Canada at Hudbay Minerals Inc —

“We want to thank the B.C. government, the USIB, the LSIB and our local communities for their open and efficient collaboration throughout the process. Through our strong commitment to responsible resource development and the expansion of copper production from Copper Mountain, we will be continuing to provide a metal that is vital for electrification and the global energy transition and supporting B.C.’s Critical Mineral Strategy.”

Spencer Coyne, mayor of Princeton — 

“The Town of Princeton is happy to hear the news about the New Ingerbelle expansion. This provides the community with job security and economic certainty. We look forward to continuing to work with Hudbay and the Ministry in the years to come.” 

Quick Facts:

• Mining provides more than 40,000 jobs in communities throughout B.C.
• B.C. contributes approximately 50% of Canada’s copper production.

Learn More:

• For more information about the Environmental Assessment Certificate, visit: https://projects.eao.gov.bc.ca/
• For more information about the company and mine, visit: https://hudbaycoppermountain.com/new-ingerbelle/
• Learn more about BC Mining Projects: https://mines.nrs.gov.bc.ca/