An independently created model of the proposed Ajax mine has the approval of the project's chief opponents.

"What a wonderful job they've done," said John Schleiermacher of the Kamloops Area Preservation Association.

The two-metre-by-one-and-a-half scale model - the first of the mine and South Shore - was on display Saturday at the downtown Farmers' Market and will be available to view the next two Saturday mornings.

After reading about the model in The Daily News, Schleiermacher promptly attended the market on St. Paul Street to examine the model himself.

"Hopefully, everybody in Kamloops will have a look at it," he said.

He wasn't the only KAPA member who was at the market intent on checking out the model. Although Ruth Madsen had a look a couple of weeks ago, she was still willing to wait in line for 10 to 15 minutes to get a second viewing.

She said the model leaves no doubt as to the size and scope of the project and how close it is to Aberdeen.

"People will be able to compare size for one thing and location, which is what we've wanted to do all along," said Madsen.

She said it proves one of the points KAPA has tried to make from the beginning - the mine is too close to town.

What it lacks is an indication of how much of the mine is in Kamloops. Madsen maintains 50 per cent of the project is within city limits.

Madsen and Schleiermacher made it clear that KAPA was in no way involved in the model's creation. It was strictly the work of an independent group.

"We didn't commission it. We weren't involved in it," said Schleiermacher.

Hazel Mader and Gregg Lindros, volunteers who helped work on the model, told The Daily News on Friday that it was constructed from neutral information and isn't intended to push an opinion on the mine.

Maps from the City's website were used to show elevations and information submitted by KGHM to the province was utilized to draft the mine pits and piles.

KGHM Ajax's attempt at a video 3-D model came under heavy criticism, even from city hall. No physical model of the proposal has been available so far.

Schleiermacher said KAPA eagerly awaits the KGHM-crafted model, but doubts the company can do a better job.

"They can't do any worse and I doubt they can do better," he said.

The volunteer effort cost about $10,000.