A Toronto-based gold developer has obtained Ontario’s inaugural Recovery of Minerals permit, enabling gold extraction from historic tailings and site remediation at the Hollinger mine in Timmins. This approval stems from streamlined provincial regulations introduced last year.
Project Milestone and Site Overview
STLLR Gold views this permit as a key achievement, allowing advanced technical and environmental assessments. These steps pave the way for reprocessing legacy tailings and restoring the 200-hectare site to the City of Timmins in the years ahead.
The tailings consist of surface-deposited waste rock from the early 1900s at the former Hollinger mine. Preliminary assessments indicate approximately 60 million tonnes of material containing an estimated 413,000 ounces of gold resources.
Gold Prices Drive Viability
With gold prices nearing $5,000 US per ounce, the project gains strong economic potential. Meghan Shannon, STLLR Gold’s vice president of sustainability and regulatory affairs, noted, “Years ago, gold prices were very different than they are today. Given today’s current gold prices, other companies are examining similar legacy sites in the province, as they now prove economically viable.”
Support from Provincial and Local Leaders
Ontario’s Minister of Energy and Mines, Stephen Lecce, highlighted the initiative’s benefits: “The Hollinger Tailings Project shows how we can recover valuable minerals, remediate a century-old tailings facility, and create good-paying jobs in Timmins and across the North—all at the same time. By moving faster and smarter, Ontario will strengthen our economy and remain at the forefront of innovation and responsible resource development for generations to come.”
Timmins Mayor Michelle Boileau echoed the enthusiasm: “The recent provincial authorization allowing further work at Hollinger reflects real momentum towards long-term remediation and cleanup. These efforts help address legacy environmental impacts while reinforcing strong partnerships between the Province, the City of Timmins, and STLLR Gold.”
