It has been mentioned before that CLF could well decide to pick up what they desire in the ROF, Cr presently, and then mothball it for an indeterminate period of time. This would mean, from their position, that they would have locked up resources and postponed development and likely, the planned infra-structure. I don't know that there is anything that guarantees that they have to act on their studies/initial work. The initially announced intentions could easily be rescinded after having created the motivation to back them, having been challenged by NOT. In short they would proceed when good and ready, while they continue their game. Perhaps upsetting the locals to cause issues would be to their intentions. Hamstring the ROF and you take out the competition, scare away investors and you can move in and pick things up cheaper than anyone ever imagined. Mind you the BODs would likely be taken care of.

Warning: The above is pure speculation and theorizing and has no basis in fact.