Nova Scotia is moving forward with a new gold mine, promising economic growth and jobs for the province.
The government announced on Wednesday that it has granted industrial approval to NexGold Mining Corp (CVE: NEXG) (OTCMKTS: NXGCF) to develop the Goldboro Gold Mine in Guysborough County.
Officials project the mine could create 735 jobs and contribute USD$2.1 billion to Nova Scotia’s economy over its lifetime. In addition, the project is expected to generate USD$1.1 billion in direct and indirect household income and deliver over USD$528 million in tax revenue across federal, provincial, and municipal levels.
Construction on the Goldboro Mine is scheduled to begin in 2026. According to provincial officials, it will become the only active gold mine in Nova Scotia. The government has leased nearly 800 hectares of crown land to NexGold, and the project will also occupy adjacent private land.
“Mining is the backbone of modern economics, while sustaining communities, economies and governments,” said Janice Zinck, executive director of Natural Resources. “Even agriculture takes mining.”
The industrial approval comes with strict terms and conditions. For example, a regulatory oversight committee will ensure environmental standards are mained while the mine continues to operate. The project also follows a new provincial pathway designed to streamline the development of metal mining operations.
In June, Environment Minister Timothy Halman announced revisions to the industrial approval process, which governs a mine’s daily operations and environmental compliance.
The revised approach allows companies to submit certain details after approval but before construction. For instance, the company can finalize erosion and sedimentation control plans after approval, but prior to building activities.
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New results provide guidance and reduce bureaucratic delay
Halman said this “phased” process speeds up project timelines while maintaining environmental protections.
The Mining Society of Nova Scotia welcomed the changes in a statement. The industry said the new rules provide clearer guidance and reduce bureaucratic delays. Meanwhile, environmental advocates expressed concern about transparency.
Karen McKendry, wilderness outreach coordinator at the Ecology Action Centre, criticized the Progressive Conservative government for not improving public access to industrial approval documents.
Despite criticism, the government insists the Goldboro project balances economic benefits and environmental responsibility. Officials say the phased approach allows projects to start faster without compromising oversight. Furthermore, the mine’s approval demonstrates the province’s commitment to attracting investment and creating employment opportunities.
NexGold’s Goldboro Gold Mine represents a significant milestone for Nova Scotia. It promises a decade of economic contribution, hundreds of jobs, and an active commitment to regulatory compliance. The project also signals the government’s push to streamline approvals for future metal mining operations, setting a precedent for the province’s resource development strategy.
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