Without being an industry insider, it's difficult to know all...

Without being an industry insider, it's difficult to know all the steps needed to get a permit.
Just a simple building permit may take 6 months by the time a few departments inside a council give their go-ahead.
Suspect ( and guess) that permits for drilling have to be advertised, submissions looked at and evaluated, and half a dozen authorities consulted who according to one of the Many "Peter Principles" expand their authority to the maximum possible extent.

For believers, it's a great opportunity to "top up".

When things start happening it will seem to be quick, but all is a result of tedious permit filling, waiting for responses etc etc.It is a common complaint across the bourse. The important thing is that company doesn't spend too much while waiting or gets distracted while they wait.Glad they haven't gone for Lithium or uranium in the meantime.