Favourable autumn weather in the UK helped Wolf Minerals (ASX:WLF, LON:WLFE) to progress building its tungsten mine in Devon, the firm said in a quarterly update.
The build remains on track and the firm continues to forecast an "on time, on budget delivery of the project", with first concentrate contracted for delivery in the third quarter of 2015.
The mine plays host to the world’s fourth largest resource and when it comes online in the second half next year it will be the UK’s first new mine opening for 40 years.
Crucially, it will be just one of a few large tungsten mines outside of China.
Among the highlights of the three months to end September was the beginning of drawing down on the £75mln senior debt facility.
A geotechnical diamond drill programme at the project was also advanced.
Managing director Russell Clark said: "This has been another highly successful quarter for Wolf.
"Completing the necessary conditions to commence draw down of the senior debt finance facilities was a major milestone and our ability to meet all the conditions, and continue to advance the development of the project, is a testament to the company and the strength of our management team."
Around 96% of the plant equipment has been delivered to site, while the structural steel erection is underway and 11% complete.
Good progress has also been made on the mine waste facility, which is now 44% complete - one of the key components, the firm said.
City firm Investec noted that good progress was being made, assisted by the very mild UK weather.
"With commodity prices as volatile as they are currently (including tungsten down 11% since the mid-year) it is certainly more comfortable to be in construction than production," it said.
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