VRX Silica Gains Key Ministerial Backing for Arrowsmith North Project Development
VRX Silica (ASX: VRX) has received environmental approval for the development of its 100%-owned Arrowsmith North silica sand project in Western Australia.
The approval was granted by WA environment minister Matthew Swinbourn, following an earlier recommendation from the Environmental Protection Authority.
With this milestone complete, VRX is now progressing the final suite of approvals and targeting first production in the second half of 2026.
Pathway Cleared for Development
The ministerial approval allows VRX to implement the proposal subject to specified conditions, which include staged mining, rehabilitation requirements, and the achievement of set environmental outcomes.
VRX said the conditions were already anticipated and align with its stated commitment to safe and responsible mining practices at Arrowsmith North.
The company noted that the approval clears a pathway to secure ancillary permits covering plant construction, water use and project logistics.
The Department of Mines, Petroleum and Exploration approved VRX’s Mining Proposal in early August, leaving only a small number of outstanding approvals before the company can begin construction.
Project Scale and Market Demand
Located 270 kilometres north of Perth, Arrowsmith North features a JORC-compliant ore reserve of 221 million tonnes at 99.5% silicon dioxide.
An updated feasibility study in March 2024 confirmed plans to ramp production from 1Mt per annum to more than 2Mtpa.
Extensive customer testing has shaped the project, confirming the suitability of its high-quality sand for glassmaking and foundry applications.
Demand across Asia is growing sharply, with the the construction boom benefiting the flat-glass sector and the automotive industry driving orders for specialty glass.
Australia is already the leading exporter of silica sand in the Asia-Pacific region but multinationals dominate the market, and VRX is positioning Arrowsmith North to introduce a new, long-life supplier into this landscape.
Responsible Outcomes
Managing director Bruce Maluish described the approval as “a significant milestone” for VRX after what he called a rigorous process designed to ensure responsible outcomes.
He said the company’s immediate focus now turns to finalising infrastructure agreements, transport and logistics solutions, power supply and mining services.
Binding offtake negotiations are progressing alongside financing discussions, which will underpin construction and development.
The company is targeting first production in 2026 and expects Arrowsmith North to become a long-term contributor to regional jobs and state royalties.
Alongside Arrowsmith North, VRX is also advancing the Muchea and Boyatup silica sand projects, giving it one of the most advanced portfolios of silica developments on the ASX.