LaFleur Minerals Inc. is advancing plans to restart production at its Beacon Gold Mill in Val-d’Or, Québec, by early 2026, supported by a Preliminary Economic Assessment and a 5,000-metre diamond drilling program at the nearby Swanson Gold Project. The Beacon Mill, a facility capable of processing 750 tonnes per day, has undergone over C$20 million in upgrades and is fully permitted, positioning it as a key asset in a region rich with gold deposits. This initiative comes as gold prices remain above $3,300 per ounce, motivating the company to expedite its production timeline and expand its resource base through focused exploration efforts.
The Swanson Gold Project, central to LaFleur's strategy, boasts an NI 43-101 mineral resource of 123,400 ounces indicated and 64,500 ounces inferred. The company is finalizing a bulk sample plan involving up to 100,000 tonnes and additional mill enhancements estimated at C$5.6 million. Located in the Abitibi Gold Belt, the project spans approximately 16,600 hectares and includes several gold-rich prospects. Its accessibility by road and a rail line running through the property enhances development potential, offering direct access to nearby gold mills. More details on the project can be found at https://www.lafleurminerals.com/projects/swanson-gold-project.
LaFleur's Beacon Gold Mill, fully refurbished and permitted, is being considered not only for processing mineralized material from Swanson but also for custom milling operations for other gold projects in the vicinity. This strategic move underscores the company's commitment to leveraging its assets in a favorable gold market, aiming to deliver long-term value through the development of its Swanson Gold Project and the Beacon Gold Mill. The mill's capabilities and permitting status are highlighted in company updates at https://www.lafleurminerals.com/news. By integrating these assets, LaFleur seeks to optimize operational efficiency and capitalize on the region's mining infrastructure, which could enhance economic returns and support local employment in Québec's mining sector.
The implications of this announcement extend beyond LaFleur's corporate growth, potentially influencing the regional gold mining landscape in Québec. The restart of the Beacon Mill could provide processing capacity for multiple projects, reducing logistical costs and environmental impacts associated with transporting ore. With gold prices at elevated levels, this development aligns with broader industry trends toward revitalizing existing infrastructure in established mining districts. Investors and stakeholders may view this as a prudent step to mitigate risks while maximizing resource utilization, as detailed in financial reports at https://www.lafleurminerals.com/investors. Ultimately, LaFleur's progress reflects a strategic response to market conditions, with potential ripple effects on supply chains and community development in the Abitibi region.
