Fortescue Metals Group Limited is proposing to increase the footprint and mining life of the Solomon Iron Ore Project. The proposal consists of expanding mining operations and rail infrastructure beyond the current footprint. Fortescue Metals Group Limited is also seeking approval for an external borefield to provide an additional water supply to support the expansion.
The extent of proposed ground disturbance is approximately:
- 11,322 hectares for the mine expansion within a development envelope of 33,520 hectares;
- 700 hectares for an additional external borefield within an development envelope of 33,712 hectares; and
- 476 hectares for additional permanent rail infrastructure within the 29,257 hectare rail corridor envelope (which includes a spur).
The combined area of disturbance is approximately 12,498 hectares. This is in addition to the 6,297 hectares of disturbance area approved under Ministerial Statement No. 862 for the original proposal, and results in a total disturbance footprint of 18,795 hectares.
