Aquila Resources has received environmental approval from the Western Australian government for the development of its 50 per cent-owned Anketell Port in the Pilbara, subject to some conditions.

The company said combined with the environmental approval granted for its mine and rail elements of the West Pilbara Iron Ore project in December 2011, all state primary environmental approval requirements have been completed.

The port is a vital element of Aquila’s plans to mine 30million tonnes per annum of iron ore fines and is part of major infrastructure needed to bring the project although it would also be used by other companies.

The port would have an initial capacity of 100mtpa but could rise to 350mtpa with expansion. Development would include the construction of a 20km deep-water channel to allow cape size vessels depart the port fully laden. A causeway and jetty is required to transport ore from the mainland to the ship loader as well as stockpile facilities and a train line.

Development of the Anketell Port is subject to certain conditions and procedures and after staged expansion of the multi-user, deepwater port it could handle up to 350.

The next stage of development will focus on receiving is for Commonwealth approval.