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THE on-going expansion of Gwanda-based gold producer Blanket Mine has so far seen the completion of three stages to date. The gold producer’s $70 million expansion project involves developing a “Tramming Loop” 750-metre below surface; continuing to sink the No. 6 Winze to provide access to deeper level resources; and sinking a new six-metre diameter Central Shaft from surface to 1,080 metres.

In its latest update on the project parent company, the TSX-listed Caledonia Mining Corporation said the Tramming Loop was completed ahead of schedule in June 2015.

It is expected that the completed Tramming Loop will allow for an increase in development, which is expected to result in increased production towards the end of this year.

The group also reported that the sinking of the No. 6 Winze has been completed and preparations have commenced for equipping the shaft. Initial production from the No. 6 Winze is scheduled for January 2016 and is expected to reach the target rate of 500 tonnes per day in May 2017.

Additionally, the company said at the Central Shaft, surface earthworks have been completed and the shaft has been sunk to eight metres, which completes the void for the shaft collar and is ready to be filled with concrete, after which shaft sinking will commence again.

The shaft will be sunk to 1,080 metres below surface. Management said the expansion is moving according to schedule to double the gold producer’s annual output.

“We’re pleased with the ongoing implementation of the Revised Plan, which is proceeding as scheduled and within budget. The completion of the Tramming Loop and sinking of the No. 6 Winze are significant steps towards incrementally increasing production from 2016 onwards to achieve an annual rate of 80,000 ounces of gold by 2021. We look forward to keeping the market updated with further progress,” said Caledonia CEO Steve Curtis. — BH24