CBI chief executive talks critical minerals in Cornwall
Rain Newton-Smith, chief executive of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), last week toured the South West along with CBI regional director Ben Rhodes. Rain spent Tuesday (4 February) with Imerys at a critical minerals round table event and tour of its lithium pilot plant near Roche.
The round table was attended by a wide range of influencers from across Cornwall - representing other critical mineral mining businesses, Camborne School of Mines, University of Exeter, the Great Southwest, Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, the Critical Minerals Association and many others.
Rain explains:
“We have had a really useful discussion today, focusing on the importance of critical minerals in delivering the UK's new industrial strategy.
“Thanks to its rich geology, mining expertise and infrastructure, Cornwall has the potential to benefit massively from the UK’s growing need for a domestic supply of critical minerals.
“At the CBI, we are very keen to support Cornwall along its path of industrial growth, and I personally look forward to being part of that journey.”
Mark Hewson, Imerys UK adds:
"We were delighted to host this event with the CBI. These discussions are vital for Cornish industry. We need to work collaboratively to ensure Cornwall gets the national focus it deserves - in key areas such as infrastructure and investment.
“As we move forwards with our plans to produce over 20,000 tonnes of lithium carbonate every year - here in Cornwall - we welcome support and interest from influential bodies such as the CBI.”
Imerys is currently completing a pre-feasibility study for its plans to build the world’s first co-located lithium mine and processing facility. The project will provide at least 300 direct jobs for an area with a rich mining heritage stretching back centuries.