Scotgold Resources has received permission from the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park Planning Authority for a bulk processing trial at its Cononish gold and silver mine near Tyndrum in Argyll.

Scotgold said in February it wanted to produce an historic “first pour” gold output, as a step to establishing full production. Chief executive Richard Gray said it was significant the authority had recognised the project’s employment potential.

Separately Scotgold reported cash of £563,000 at the end of March, from £455,000 three months earlier, and payments of £56,000 to the directors and consultant Chris Sangster.