First Development Resources plc (AIM:FDR) has been granted an Environmental (Mining) Licence by the Northern Territory Government, unlocking on‑ground works and a clear pathway to drill testing at the high‑priority Lander West target within its wholly owned Selta Project on the Stafford Gold Trend.
The approved EML permits 40 RC drill holes (with associated pads and sumps), up to 13.5km of access tracks at a maximum 3m width and total surface disturbance of 6.45 hectares — the operational envelope FDR will use to execute a targeted RC programme.
"Securing the Environmental (Mining) Licence is a pivotal achievement for the Company and allows us to move immediately from target generation to drill testing at Lander West," said Tristan Pottas, Chief Executive Officer of FDR.
FDR says the drill plan follows systematic work at Lander West, including desktop studies, aeromagnetic and radiometric surveys and a Gradient Array IP survey whose integration refined the geological model and defined priority targets along the trend.
The company is advancing contractor engagement, logistics and payment of the environmental security bond; it expects formal notice to commence from the Northern Territory Government within approximately five business days and is targeting drilling later this year.
