Denison awards Wood construction management contract for Phoenix uranium project, advancing toward construction, regulatory approval, and future production readiness in Canada.
Denison Mines Corp. has officially granted a construction management contract to Wood plc for the development of the Phoenix in-situ recovery uranium mine in Canada. This award marks a significant advancement for the Wheeler River Project, signaling that the initiative is moving closer to the construction phase. The agreement reflects both companies’ continued collaboration and highlights a key step toward bringing the uranium-recovery operation into production.
David Cates, President and CEO of Denison Mines Corp., emphasized that this decision aligns with the company’s preparation for receiving federal approvals required to begin site development. He noted that appointing Wood allows Denison to capitalize on an established working relationship. This partnership dates back to their joint efforts on the 2023 feasibility study for the Phoenix project and has continued through the detailed engineering design work carried out over the past two years. According to Cates, this continuity ensures efficiency and familiarity with the project’s technical framework.
Cates further explained that Denison is proactively assembling its construction teams and onboarding essential personnel to ensure readiness once regulatory approvals are secured. The company is positioning itself to initiate site preparation activities immediately after obtaining the necessary permits. With a solid financial standing, alongside substantial progress in engineering, procurement, and construction planning, Denison is well prepared to proceed with a Final Investment Decision in the near term. The company intends to move swiftly into construction following federal authorization of the Environmental Assessment and the licence required to build the mine and mill facilities.
From Wood’s perspective, the contract reinforces a trusted partnership and demonstrates confidence in its capabilities. Kris Homer, Senior Vice President for Minerals and Metals West at Wood, expressed appreciation for Denison’s continued reliance on the company’s expertise. He highlighted that Wood has been involved with the Phoenix project since its early feasibility stage, giving the team a deep understanding of the project’s technical complexities and execution demands.
Homer stated that Wood’s primary objective is to ensure a smooth transition from planning to construction. This includes maintaining continuity in staffing, implementing disciplined project management practices, and delivering predictable outcomes as the project progresses toward production. He underscored the importance of safety and efficiency, noting that these principles will guide all aspects of the construction phase.
The collaboration between Denison and Wood is expected to combine their respective strengths in project execution, construction management, and uranium industry expertise. Together, they aim to deliver the Phoenix project successfully, positioning it as a notable development within Canada’s uranium sector. As both companies move forward, their integrated approach is anticipated to streamline execution and support the timely achievement of production goals.
