Woodsmith Project

STRABAG UK is working to construct the world’s longest conveyor tunnel for a permanent mineral transport system at the Woodsmith mine, which will transport tens of millions of tonnes of polyhalite from beneath the North York Moors National Park.

Environmental and social responsibility

As the polyhalite deposit is located within a national park, extensive measures have been taken to minimise the environmental impact on the natural surroundings.
 
To reduce any visual impact, mineshaft headframes have been sunk below ground and any aboveground buildings have been designed to look like agricultural barns with wood cladding. Further environmental considerations include strictly controlled working hours for surface operations to limit light impact, the implementation of full noise control measures, extensive air quality monitoring, and preservation of wildlife and ecology habitats.
 
Transporting the mined ore to Teeside via a 37 km underground conveyor belt system eliminates the need to congest local roads and rail infrastructure, thereby minimising the impact on local communities.
 
STRABAG UK directly employs 450 staff on the project, 75% of which are local to Teesside. We have also prioritised the use of local construction partners and suppliers, creating many more jobs for the region.