I do not know much about mining so am loath about stating my views.
But for starting a discussion I state as I see things (perhaps others will comment):

Biggest obstacle that I foresee is from the natives. Not so much from Webequie who should be the only ones consulted imho, but from the more distant ones who want a piece of the pie and feeling left out will do what they can to get their way.
Problem with the natives should be forefront dealt with by the province, but as I see it not much results are to be seen. We are told of progress but not much of substantial progress was demonstrated. Just more threats from native communities who are more distantly located from the Ring.

We may get all the permits but if we are to see the kinds of blokades of about four years ago, we will not progress much with construction. Province has to arrange assurances. Noront has done to date all they can.
(Perhaps some of the selling of late is due to nervousness that things will not be agreed upon with the natives in near time.)

Most important construction wise is environmental assesment and permit for the actual mine. Without that we can forget about everything. This permit is the foundation for going forward on everything.

Next construction wise is the necessary transportation. Road or rail who cares as long as one is available.

Where we prefer is that we have rail because the cost of getting our metals to markets is least.

But Ed, 'Then why are you harping about the road?"

Well not much we can do if we do not have the natives on our side and after environment they want easyaccess to the rest of the country. That can not happen without a road. We also need to get the materials on site to build the mine. Road is the easiest i.e. quickest way of doing so. Winter road has limited use in time, it is sufficient to start mine construction but needs to be replaced by all weather one to finish the
mine in good time.
Road also needs a permit to get going. I suspect that is easy to get and the company may already have it if not on paper than at least a nominal agreement.
Not as important as the mine permit but road permit is needed before it because the road has to be complete before the mine. Just my guess.

Simultaneous with with completion of mine construction, substantial electrical power is needed. Perhaps initially diesel could provide but not long after it has to be provided from the Ontario grid. Grid is mostly a provincial matter. So it probably has to follow the mine and transportation.

Some may say we simultaneously need financing. I do not foresee any serious problems with that, even in this economic crisis. Our nickel ore is so rich and thus profitable that investors should line up and vie with their terms to finance us. And no, low nickel or metal prices are not a stopper.

Ed.