ASX-listed Bannerman Energy has reported that early works construction at its Etango uranium project, in Namibia, continues to advance on budget and schedule.

In a statement to shareholders, the company notes that the bulk earthworks contract is progressing well and stands at about 66.5% complete.

The company explains that a major focus of this contract remains on the construction of heap-leach pads and ponds, and wet plant terraces.

Bannerman also reports that the blasting, crushing and screening of heap-leach drainage aggregate by local Namibian contractor Tulela Mining and Construction is advancing to schedule and on-spec with about 24% of the total requirement completed.

Moreover, a total 5 509 m³ of concrete has been cast as part of the Phase 1 and Phase 2A concrete contracts at the primary crusher, stockpile tunnel and fine ore silo.

This represents about 32% of the volume of concrete to be poured for these packages.

Further, the company says that detailed design and procurement activities are also advancing well, with civil and mechanical design for the dry plant about 93% complete and aligned with schedule requirement for the issue of construction drawings.

The company explains that the wet plant design is currently focused on layout optimisation, with progress also remaining aligned with schedule requirement for the issue of construction drawings later this year.

Further, Bannerman reports that long-term infrastructure and utilities supply activities are progressing strongly, with Phase 1 of permanent water supply pipeline installation advancing and about 70% complete.

The company notes that discussions with Namibia's water utility, NamWater, on the draft permanent water supply agreement continue to advance positively, with both parties working constructively towards finalisation and execution of this agreement.

Meanwhile, Bannerman says a definitive power supply agreement with NamPower has been signed, adding that detailed design of the dedicated feeder bay for Etango at NamPower’s Kuiseb substation is progressing.

The company says the engineering, procurement and construction management consultant for these works is expected to be appointed during the second quarter of this year.

“The Etango site is developing rapidly as construction of the project advances at a visible and impressive pace.

“The presence of over 560 contract personnel actively working on this initial build programme shows the scale and significance of our progress,” says Bannerman MD and CEO Gavin Chamberlain

“We are two-thirds of the way through the 24-month bulk earthworks contract, which continues to advance on budget and schedule. Our early construction works activities continue to maintain the critical path for the Etango construction timeline.

“The excellent outcome to date is largely due to the quality and dedication of our key contract partners in the delivery of all major programmes of work currently in progress.

“This commitment is matched amongst the Bannerman owner’s team, as Etango continues towards a targeted final investment decision and full-scale construction launch later this year,” he continues.