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Project
North Yorkshire Polyhalite Project
Sirius Minerals Plc
Promoting such a strategically important project, at a site benefiting from the highest level of environmental policy protection, presented us with a real challenge. National Parks are not necessarily preferred locations for major infrastructure projects. The successful delivery of permissions for one of the world’s most sustainable mining projects, involving a mine covering a below-ground area of 252 square kilometres; a 36.5 kilometre long tunnel to transport the mined polyhalite from the minehead at Dove’s Nest Farm, near Whitby, to Teesside; a new material handling facility at Wilton; and a purpose-built harbour facility at Bran Sands, is testament to the sensitive and considered planning strategy employed.
From the project on-set we were committed to an open collaborative approach with all key parties, engaging positively with the local community, the various determining authorities, and statutory consultees. This created an unprecedented level of support for such a major scheme. Alongside this, we clearly presented the exceptional characteristics of the development and as a result were able to secure both planning and Development Consent Order permissions for this unique project.
The North Yorkshire Polyhalite Project has the potential to transform the economic performance of the area, bringing a much-needed major investment into the Teesside catchment. We are delighted to have played a part in bringing forward this strategically important project, re-introducing economic mineral extraction to an area with a rich heritage of mining, and doing it in a way totally befitting its National Park setting.
Justin Gartland, Chairman, Lichfields
Image credit: dpa picture alliance / Alamy Stock Photo