Silver Mines Limited has advanced the Bowdens Silver Project toward a final planning decision after the New South Wales Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure completed its assessment of recent project data and delivered supplementary advice to the Independent Planning Commission.

The regulatory department advised the commission that the additional information provided by Silver Mines does not fundamentally alter its earlier conclusions. The planning authority previously maintained that the project is in the public interest and approvable under strict conditions of consent.

The decision follows an August 2024 Court of Appeal ruling that set aside the project's original development consent due to a technical assessment issue regarding a proposed power transmission line. Silver Mines subsequently submitted updated data and biodiversity documentation to address the regulatory requirements.

“DPHI's supplementary advice to the IPC is a significant milestone for the Bowdens Silver Project and Silver Mines shareholders, more than two years since the Bowdens Development Consent was voided on a minor technical issue under NSW planning regulations.” 

— Jo Battershill, Managing Director

The Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure has agreed to extend the timeline for the Independent Planning Commission to conclude its review. The commission has scheduled public hearings with a newly appointed panel for 14 and 15 October 2026.

Under the revised timetable, the commission must determine the development application within 85 days of receiving the supplementary advice, setting a final determination deadline of 9 December 2026.

The Bowdens Project holds an Ore Reserve of 32.8 million tonnes at 68 g/t silver, 0.38% zinc, and 0.29% lead, containing 71.7 million ounces of silver.

Read the full announcement: Major Approvals Milestone Achieved for the Bowdens Project