Dual-listed Centerra Gold has received amended environmental assessment approval and all related permits to allow its Mount Milligan mine, in central British Columbia, to continue operating through 2035.

The approvals also provide for a 10% expansion in plant throughput from 2028 and increased stockpile capacity to enhance plant feed flexibility.

Mount Milligan was selected by British Columbia in January last year as one of four mining projects eligible for expedited permitting to support economic development in the province.

Centerra said it continues to advance engineering and other studies to support further permit authorisations required to extend the mine life to 2045, as outlined in the prefeasibility study released in September last year. That study detailed a fully funded, disciplined $186-million growth capital plan.

“Mount Milligan is the cornerstone of Centerra’s organic gold growth strategy in British Columbia. We are encouraged by the results of the process that has just concluded and believe that when government, First Nations, and industry are mutually committed to responsible resource development, we can achieve great things,” said president and CEO Paul Tomory.

He added that the extended mine life was expected to support more than 1 000 jobs and deliver broader economic benefits. “The extended life of mine is expected to provide consistent employment to more than 1 000 workers and increase business opportunities to First Nations, surrounding communities, and the province, representing a significant economic driver for northern communities in British Columbia,” he said.

British Columbia Premier David Eby said the permitting outcome demonstrated the province’s commitment to advancing major projects while maintaining regulatory standards.

“The Mount Milligan mine expansion will ensure hundreds of good, family-supporting jobs are secure for years to come, while generating hundreds of millions of dollars in additional economic benefits for the region and beyond,” he said.

“Our government expedited this priority project by creating efficiencies without compromising our high environmental and safety standards or our commitment to consultation with First Nations. We’re going to keep that momentum going as we continue to advance major projects and make BC the economic engine of the new Canadian economy.”

Mount Milligan is one of two operating mines in Centerra’s portfolio, alongside the Öksüt mine in Türkiye, with the company also holding development and exploration assets in Canada and the US.