New explosives factory could be built on 1,500 acres in northern New Brunswick

New Brunswick is considering the construction of a new explosives factory on 1,500 acres of land in the northern town of Belledune, according to a letter from Natural Resource Minister John Herron to Nalagx, a defense company. The project, which would produce TNT for artillery and drones, as well as propellant for mining and industrial applications, is seen as a potential boost to the province's economic growth.

The 1,500 acres of land, located just outside the communities of Huron Bay and Belledune, is considered favorable due to its proximity to roads, rail infrastructure, and the Port of Belledune. Denis Caron, president and CEO of the Belledune Port Authority, emphasized the strategic significance of the region in strengthening Canada's defense and industrial assets, particularly in supporting transatlantic supply chains.

Nalagx aims to achieve full production by 2030, with environmental assessments, consultations, and raw material supply plans set to begin later this year. However, Premier Susan Holt clarified that a final deal has not been reached, stating that the government is still in the early stages of exploring this opportunity. The land will be held for two years, contingent upon Nalagx securing an agreement with a "credible operating partner" by December 31.

It is worth noting that Nalagx previously signed a letter of intent to build an energetics factory with Europe's leading explosives manufacturer, Eurenco, but the partnership ultimately fell through. The company has since formed a partnership with the American-based Union Technologies.