PILBARA Ports Authority has secured its first two customers for the new Lumsden Point multi-user facility at Port Hedland.
Mineral Resources and Pilbara Minerals have each signed a commitment agreement for the minerals export section of the two-berth facility.
Early last month PPA sought expressions of interest for the design and construction of two berths, a shiploader and associated conveyor infrastructure at Lumsden Point, which has been designated the port’s new multi-user facility and logistics hub.
At the time PPA said the development would facilitate the export of battery metals such as lithium and copper concentrates, the import of renewable energy infrastructure including wind turbines and blades, as well as support the growth of direct shipping services to the Pilbara.
The Federal Government is investing $565 million to support common user port upgrades in the Pilbara, part of which will enable the development of Lumsden Point. This is in partnership with the Western Australian Government, which has committed $129.1 million to the project.
PPA said there was already considerable demand for the development, which has now been confirmed by the new agreements with more expected to be formalised in coming months.
The agreements enable PPA to progress securing tenure with Pilbara Minerals and with the Joint Venture between Mineral Resources and Albemarle, allowing them to start developing their new facilities in the port, the WA Government said today [18 April].
Ports Minister David Michael said the Cook Government was delivering on its commitment to diversify trade in the Pilbara by progressing the Lumsden Point project.
“The project has been progressing rapidly, with the seawalls at Lumsden Point nearing completion, enabling the next stages of the project to get underway, including dredging and causeway construction,” Mr Michael said.
“It’s fantastic to see the first customers secured, a crucial step in the overall project.”
