Nuclear power enthusiasts have expressed frustration at the Northern Territory government’s decision to quarantine Australia’s best undeveloped uranium deposit from future development in a year in which resurgent uranium prices have tested 16-year highs.

Northern Territory Mining Minister Mark Monaghan rejected Energy Resources of Australia’s request to extend a lease over the undeveloped Jabiluka uranium deposit on Friday, handing victory to the Mirarr native titleholders who have opposed development for 42 years.