Last-ditch effort to save Robertson headframe too risky for N.W.T. government

The Northwest Territories government decided against preserving the Robertson headframe, an iconic Yellowknife landmark, due to the potential costs to the government if it ever had to to take the structure down in the future.

Robert C. McLeod, the Minister of Lands, said the potential demolition costs and environmental remediation were estimated at $2 million.

He said after four months of discussions with Miramar Mining, the company responsible for remediation ofthe site, a suitable deal could not be reached.

"After some negotiations and some discussions, it came to a decision that there was some concern with any potential future liability that would be put to the GNWT," said McLeod.

"As far aswhat figure that thegovernment would be willing to take on, I am not sure about that."

McLeod said the plan was for the territorial government to take on the responsibility of theheadframe and then have a third party take it over and run the structure as a tourist attraction.

"I am satisfied that the parties made a good effort to try and see if we could keep theheadframe." McLeod said.

"I am not sure what is going to happen in the future with the headframe, and where they are at with potential demolition."

'Is it too late?'

McLeod said it is still possible for Miramar to have its remediation plan amendedto allow the headframe to remain standing, buta group other than the territorial government would have to come forward to take on the liability of the structure.

• Con Mine's Robertson headframe could be demolished by 2016
• Yellowknife plans to turn Con Mine site into recreation area

According to the territorial government, the Department of Lands has the power to amend Miramar'slease agreement, andthe Mackenzie Valley Land and Water Board couldamend the company'sfinal Closure and Remediation Plan which currently requires the headframe to be demolished.

The Land and WaterBoard would also needto recommend amendmentsto Miramar's water licence which would then need to be approved by the Minister of Environment and Natural Resources.