A mining operation in Sudbury, which ceased operations eight years ago due to a decline in metal prices, is on track to resume production. Magna Mining revealed on Thursday that a preliminary economic evaluation suggests the Levack Mine could be profitable once again. The company’s board has given the green light to restart operations, aiming for commercial mining to recommence by mid-2028.
Previously active until 2018 and yielding nickel, copper, and precious metals under KGHM International Ltd.’s ownership, Levack was acquired by Magna Mining in 2024. The company’s initial assessment forecasts a renewed mine life of approximately seven years, with an estimated daily ore production of around 2,200 short tons. The ore is projected to contain copper, nickel, platinum, palladium, gold, as well as minor amounts of silver and cobalt.
According to Magna Mining CEO Jason Jessup, the decision to approve the mine’s restart was straightforward, considering the substantial underground reserves of precious metals at Levack. Emphasizing copper and precious metals due to their favorable pricing trends, Jessup highlighted that restarting the mine would cost approximately $70 million, with existing infrastructure helping to maintain manageable expenses.
Anticipating a rapid return on investment within seven months of initiating operations, Jessup outlined plans to accelerate development activities in early 2027, aiming for full commercial production by mid-2028. Underground preparations, such as re-establishing the production hoist, waste rock relocation, and refurbishing existing mining levels, are already in progress.
Upon reaching full operational capacity, the Levack Mine is projected to provide employment for around 200 permanent staff, alongside contractors and part-time workers. Jessup underscored that restarting Levack aligns with a broader strategy to revive dormant Sudbury mines, leveraging the region’s established mining and processing infrastructure. In addition to Levack, Magna Mining is exploring opportunities at other former mining sites, including the Crean Hill project.
Despite the encouraging preliminary results, Magna Mining cautioned that a comprehensive feasibility study is pending completion for the Levack project, which will determine its economic feasibility.