URA Holdings PLC on Monday said that it has started the commissioning phase at the Gravelotte Emerald Mine in South Africa, targeting first production before the end of April.
According to the Africa-focused mineral exploration company, sufficient ore feed tonnes are now readily accessible on the run-of-mine pads for both commissioning and first production, with a total available ROM stockpile now exceeding 3,000 tonnes.
URA said that mechanical equipment pre-operational testing is also currently in progress.
‘We are pleased to report that we are on track to first production before the end of April and the start of commission of the processing and sorting plant is a significant final step in achieving this objective,’ said Chief Executive Officer Bernard Olivier.
‘Operational readiness and the transition to daily operations is a key part of this phase as we look not only to first emerald production but also towards ramping up production with a view to achieve first sales from the historic emerald mine for over 20 years.’
URA Holdings shares were trading 1.5% lower at 1.97 pence each in London on Monday afternoon.
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