WORK ON MINE SETS TO START
By ANDREW FANASIA
GOLD Ridge mine in central Guadalcanal is set to reopen with a historic ground-breaking this Saturday.
The mine was shut down some five years ago after its Australian investor withdrew following the flash floods on Guadalcanal.
Now called Gold Ridge Mine Development Project (GRMDP), it’s a partnership between Chinese investors and local landowners.
Saturday’s ground-breaking event will pave the way for the redevelopment of the mine.
GRMDP is expected to announce during the ceremony a construction contract between Gold Ridge Mining Limited (GRML) and China Railway.
Gold Ridge Manager – Public Affairs and Community Trent Lee said their stakeholder, particularly the people of Solomon Islands, have a high expectation on the project to bring economic and social benefits to the country.
“Therefore, it is the company’s top priority to develop the mine professionally and sustainably,” he added.
He stressed that GRML endeavours to develop the mine to a world class standard that is sustainable in the long term.
It’s understood that GRML will also officially detailed the contract it signed with China Railway International Group Co., Ltd. to undertake mining construction works for the Gold Ridge Mine, subject to a number of conditions being met.
“The details regarding project progress including China Railway Construction Contract will be released at the ceremony,” GRML senior official Allen Wong told the Solomon Star yesterday.
“GRML believes that China Railway International Group has the mining experience, construction expertise and Pacific experience to make a great contribution to the development of a world class mine in Solomon Islands,” Wong added.
Prime Minister Manasseh Sogavare has confirmed his support for the reopening of the Gold Ridge Mine Project after his election.
Sogavare also included Gold Ridge Mine Project in his government’s 100 days policy strategy.
