Mining giant De Beers plans to close the Victor mine in Canada

The miner said the decision to shutter the operation is in line with the original feasibility study and current mine plan.

Rough diamond output at the Victor mine started in July 2008, with an original forecast of six million carats during its mine life.

The mine has already comfortably exceeded the production plan with around seven million carats produced so far.

Management intends to continue with full production until the close-down date.

De Beers has been carrying out reclamation work at the mine for several years, with the planting of more than 200,000 tree saplings.

In 2019, the company will begin demolition and environmental monitoring which is due to last from three to five years aimed at ensuring a “positive legacy.” De Beers says it is working with community partners to create local employment opportunities.