Withdrawal of 1152-person workers camp application casts further doubt on Kalgoorlie smelter refurbishment

Further doubt has been cast over the refurbishment of the Kalgoorlie nickel smelter after BHP withdrew an application for an 1152-bed workers accommodation camp. The workers camp was due to be built to accommodate a portion of the 2000 staff needed to take on the $750 million Kalgoorlie nickel smelter upgrade, but the entire project hangs in the balance after BHP announced it is considering mothballing its nickel operations in WA. The temporary camp project was due to come before the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder council on Monday for planning approval, but mayor Glenn Wilson confirmed to the Kalgoorlie Miner on Wednesday the item had now been “withdrawn” from the meeting’s agenda. “Although it’s not unusual for planning applications to be withdrawn or put on hold, the future of BHP’s Temporary Workforce Accommodation is not known at this point in time,” Mr Wilson said. “Nevertheless, the City remains committed to exploring possibilities and new opportunities for the development of this important land parcel and will continue to proactively seek and advocate for its use.” In August, the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder council approved the lease of more than 10ha of land near Centennial Park to BHP for the temporary camp despite concerns voiced by councillors and the community. BHP chief executive Mike Henry said on Tuesday the refurbishment project was a key aspect in its deliberations. “The smelter refurbishment is well and truly part of the consideration of whether we maintain current operations at Nickel West or move them fully into care and maintenance,” BHP chief executive Mike Henry said on Tuesday. The Kalgoorlie Miner understands planned talks between the City of Kalgoorlie-Boulder and BHP representatives due to take place on Tuesday did not take place. Mr Wilson has confirmed the City will meet with BHP personnel before Monday night’s council meeting.