Hudbay Minerals Inc. (TSX, NYSE: HBM) has officially broken ground on the New Ingerbelle expansion project at its Copper Mountain mine in British Columbia, marking a significant milestone for the operation and its long-term future in the region. The event was attended by Hudbay's executive team, employees, B.C.'s Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals, the B.C. Mining Association, the Chief of the Upper Similkameen Indian Band, regional representatives, and local community leaders. Canada's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources also recognized the event.
Strategic Growth for Hudbay
Peter Kukielski, President and Chief Executive Officer of Hudbay, stated: "New Ingerbelle is not just an expansion; it is a critical pillar of Hudbay's long-term growth strategy in British Columbia. The opening of New Ingerbelle enhances the copper and gold production profile at Copper Mountain, secures more than 800 full-time jobs beyond 2040, and ensures the mine continues to deliver economic benefits at the local, regional, and federal levels. Our efforts to optimize Copper Mountain, combined with the development of New Ingerbelle, will unlock significant long-term value for all of our stakeholders."
Government Support and Recognition
The Honourable Tim Hodgson, Canada's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, commented: "Hudbay's groundbreaking is more than a start of a new mine expansion. It's a signal of confidence in Canada's resource sector, in Canadian workers, and in our ability to build big things. Our government is proud to see a strong and proud Canadian company continuing to invest, grow, and create opportunities in British Columbia."
Jagrup Brar, British Columbia's Minister of Mining and Critical Minerals, added: "Today marks the important beginning of the next phase in a project that will continue contributing to well-paying jobs in this region for many years to come. This expansion is a huge vote of confidence in this community, reflecting the skills and training of workers who make this industry possible, and the strong momentum in British Columbia's world-leading mining and critical minerals sector."
Permitting and Community Engagement
The groundbreaking follows the Government of British Columbia adding New Ingerbelle to its list of priority resource projects, recognizing initiatives that support economic growth, responsible resource development, and long-term value creation across the province. The expansion received key mining permits on February 19, 2026, from the British Columbia Major Mines Office (MMO) after a robust review and consultation process. Hudbay proactively engaged with the MMO, local communities, the Upper Similkameen Indian Band, and the Lower Similkameen Indian Band to ensure transparency and collaborative oversight. The company reached refreshed participation agreements with both Bands earlier in February 2026.
Indigenous Perspectives
Chief Charles Allison of the Upper Similkameen Indian Band stated: "Our people have stewarded these lands and waters since time immemorial. As this project moves forward, our priority is ensuring the protection of the Similkameen River and surrounding ecosystems. We will continue to work to ensure that development respects our stewardship responsibilities and the long-term health of our territory."
