Cameco’s proposed Yeelirrie mine in the Goldfields region of Western Australia has been approved, as the state’s expansion of the industry continues.

Yeelirrie joins Vimy Resources’ Mulga Rocks, Toro Energy’s Wiluna development and Cameco’s Kintyre prospects, as the fourth new uranium project on the way in WA.

Yeelirrie got the green light despite failing to meet one of the WA Environmental Protection Authority’s nine environmental conditions.

The EPA warned that the development would impact underground fauna in the area.

But WA environmental minister Albert Jacob said economic and social effects were weighed with the environmental factors in the decision to grant approval.

The Government added conditions requiring Cameco to undertake further studies and research to understand the underground fauna and devise measures to minimise impacts.

“Further surveys may identify that the species currently only found within the project area are more widespread. I have therefore mandated as part of this approval further survey work and investment in research,” Mr Jacob said.

The Canadian company’s approval is subject to 17 conditions, and may soon face tighter conditions on flora and vegetation, offsets and the public availability of management plans.

“Cameco Australia is committed to minimising environmental impacts from its operations while at the same time maximising benefits for nearby communities and the state. The government’s approval of Yeelirrie recognises this commitment,” said Cameco Australia managing director Brian Reilly.

“We believe that with further sampling, investigation and research as outlined in the project conditions, subterranean fauna can be appropriately managed at Yeelirrie.”

If WA’s four uranium projects get running, the state government says they will create close to 1500 jobs and potentially a $1 billion a year export market, based on rising prices.