Cyprium Metals is making significant progress on restarting the Nifty copper project in Western Australia. The company has recently secured crucial environmental and construction-related approvals. These developments mark a turning point in the project’s restart timeline, reducing regulatory risk. By locking in these permits, Cyprium is advancing Phase 1 of its restart strategy with clarity. This phase includes early refurbishment works and long-term site planning.
Environmental Approvals Support Early-Stage Activities
Environmental compliance is a cornerstone of Cyprium’s development strategy at Nifty. The company has secured the necessary permits to recommence operations at the SX-EW cathode plant.These approvals enable Cyprium to undertake early-stage activities without delays. They reduce the project’s risk profile and ensure alignment with WA environmental policies.
Executive chair Matt Fifield emphasised the strategic value of these permits. “Our core assets include the environmental approvals that we already have in hand,” he said. Maintaining close relationships with regulators allows the company to navigate requirements efficiently. This proactive approach ensures that Cyprium remains compliant throughout construction and production.
Refurbishment of SX-EW Plant Underway
The company has also progressed with the refurbishment of its solvent extraction and electrowinning (SX-EW) plant. The Works Approval W6771/2022/1 has been formally extended to August 2027. This amendment includes updated engineering specifications for planned construction activities.
Key infrastructure works include rehabilitating the existing heap leach pads. Cyprium will also construct new acid storage tanks and containment systems. Upgrades to leach solution ponds and operational support facilities are also in motion. With these upgrades, the SX-EW plant is poised to return to operational status. These works are central to Cyprium’s copper cathode production strategy under Phase 1.
WA Mining Licences and Infrastructure Approvals Secured
In parallel, Cyprium has updated its mining licence to support site-wide redevelopment. Modifications reflect expanded operations and accommodate an enlarged mining footprint. Approved modifications include a southern wall cutback of the existing open-pit mine.
The licence also permits the development of new topsoil and waste rock storage areas. These changes prepare the site for a sustainable ramp-up in mining activity. Water access approvals and vegetation clearing permits are also secured. These provide vital support for uninterrupted development and construction efforts. The complete set of licences ensures long-term stability for operations at Nifty.
Final Ministerial Consent Pending for Restart Completion
While most regulatory elements are now secured, one final consent remains. Cyprium awaits ministerial sign-off for the overarching restart framework. This approval is expected to coincide with the release of the Phase 1 feasibility study. This study will outline the technical and financial scope of initial redevelopment works.
Cyprium expects that this final government consent will follow in due course. Once granted, it will mark the completion of the project’s regulatory groundwork. This final step is crucial to transitioning from planning into active construction.
Operational Timeline Extended to Allow Future Flexibility
Recognising the evolving nature of project development, Cyprium has secured permit extensions. The Works Approval extension to August 2027 offers long-term flexibility in execution. Additionally, the submission date for the mine closure plan has been moved to April 2026. These extensions allow Cyprium to respond to potential changes in market or operational conditions. They also reflect regulator confidence in the company’s ability to manage complex projects. With these flexible timelines, Cyprium can better coordinate stakeholder and contractor schedules. This forward planning strengthens the foundation for a sustainable restart process.
Nifty Restart Strategy Focuses on Long-Term Success
The Nifty copper project represents a flagship redevelopment for Cyprium Metals. By focusing on refurbishment of existing SX-EW infrastructure, the company is capitalising on legacy assets. The restart strategy aims to generate long-term copper production through efficient, staged development. A phased approach allows Cyprium to manage costs while steadily increasing output.
Government approvals, environmental permits, and community engagement are all aligned. The Nifty site has a well-documented production history, and its redevelopment offers high upside. The project’s location in a known mining region further supports logistical and regulatory efficiency. Cyprium’s transparent and systematic approach to stakeholder collaboration also builds public trust. This multi-layered strategy is designed to ensure a robust and scalable copper operation.
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A Key Milestone for Australian Copper Production
With copper demand expected to rise due to the energy transition, Nifty’s restart is well-timed. Copper plays a critical role in electric vehicles, renewable energy systems, and global electrification. As such, domestic copper supply from Nifty supports both economic and strategic objectives. Cyprium’s work to bring Nifty back online complements Australia’s push to strengthen critical minerals supply. By redeveloping an established project, the company reduces environmental and social impact. This lowers development risk compared to greenfield projects and accelerates time to production.
With key regulatory milestones now secured, Cyprium Metals is well-positioned to advance the project restart. The company’s strategic focus, combined with strong regulatory alignment, is positioning Nifty for success. As final approvals near and construction ramps up, the project will be closely watched by the industry.
