GOLD DEVELOPMENT: Construction begins at pler project in Turkey

TURKEY — Toronto's Anatolia Minerals Development has begun construction at the Çöpler gold project in the eastern part of the country. There was a brief opening ceremony before civil, mining and other major contractors began work.

Initial activities are focusing on critical path items. Excavation for the primary crusher foundation and heap leach pad preparatory work started approximately 10 days ago. Other earthworks projects underway topsoil stripping and stockpiling, on-site access road construction, and site clearing for project offices and workshops. Most equipment components are on site and the remaining incoming equipment and materials are expected shortly. Prefabricated assay laboratory buildings are in position and pre-commissioning of the lab has started. Concrete form setting has started and the concrete batch plant is being mobilized. Construction power and water are available.

Anatolia has planned a staged development at Çöpler. The near-surface oxide cap will be heap leached, and at a later date a mill will be built to treat higher grade oxide ore as well. Details are available at www.AnatoliaMinerals.com.