BHP propose to expand existing mining operations at the Newman Hub in the Pilbara, approximately 2 kilometres (km) southwest of Newman. The Proposal is a derived proposal for mining operations at Newman (Western Ridge) authorised by the Pilbara Expansion Strategic Proposal, Ministerial Statement 1105.  

The proposal is to develop four iron ore deposits to expand BHP’s Newman Hub and includes:  

• overburden storage areas 

• ore and topsoil stockpiles  

• haul and access roads 

• overland conveyor 

• 30 million tonnes per annum crusher  

• creek diversions and non-process infrastructure. 

The proposal is adjacent to Mt Whaleback mining operations. Existing ore processing and non-process infrastructure would be utilised, such as existing surplus water pipelines to Ophthalmia Dam, heavy vehicle maintenance facilities, ammonium nitrate fuel oil storage, potable water supply, laboratory analysis services, medical services and sub-station power supply.  

The proposal would include a maximum of 4,281 hectares (ha) of disturbance within a 7,234 ha development envelope