Murchison Metals Ltd (ASX: MMX) has formally executed its agreement with Resource Capital Fund V L.P. (RCF V) for the US$100 million Bridge Finance Facility that was announced to the ASX on 19 November 2010.

RCF V is a resources-focused private equity fund advised by Denver, Colorado based Resource Capital Funds, that advises a number of such funds, one of which is a significant long term shareholder in Murchison.

The facility will provide Murchison with the ability to draw in tranches, at Murchison’s election, up to a total of US$100 million to fund its share of expenditure to progress the Bankable Feasibility Studies (BFS) for the Jack Hills Expansion Project (JHEP) and Oakajee Port and Rail Infrastructure Project. The project BFSs are due for completion in the second quarter of 2011. The Facility may also be used for development activities for the projects and for working capital for Murchison.

Murchison Executive Chairman Paul Kopejtka said the Facility would provide a robust buffer to the company’s funding requirements, with significant flexibility in the timing of any drawdown whilst minimising dilution to shareholders.

“This Facility ensures Murchison can fund its share of feasibility completion costs and other predevelopment activities as preparations for the Oakajee and JHEP projects enter their most exciting phase,” Mr Kopejtka said.

“It also further builds on our strong relationship with Resource Capital Funds, which is recognised as one of the world’s leading resource project investors and is one of Murchison’s biggest shareholders.”