In its recommendation, the EPA said that Wiluna, Western Australia’s first uranium mine, meets environmental approval requirements and should be approved to proceed.
Toro Energy managing director Greg Hall said Wiluna is the first uranium project to achieve this level of assessment in Western Australia since the change to WA government policy to allow uranium mining in 2008.
"Toro is confident that its extensive technical and environmental study work and the rigorous assessment undertaken by the EPA will ensure a safe and sustainable mining operation at Wiluna," added Greg.
"The Wiluna project is one of the few in the world capable of commencing near-term production in the crucial 2014/15 period when the international nuclear industry will be seeking additional secure long-term supplies."
Toro now awaits the decision of the WA Environment Minister to proceed with the development of the project, with a decision on environmental approval anticipated by mid-2012.
The company plans to produce about 1,200 tons per annum of uranium oxide concentrate from Wiluna, beginning from the end of 2013.
The mine is expected to operate for a minimum of 14 years.
