Cornwall’s Lithium Future: CBI Chief Backs Critical Minerals Boom

Industry Leaders Gather for Key Talks

Rain Newton-Smith, chief executive of the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), visited Cornwall last week as part of a South West tour alongside CBI regional director Ben Rhodes. On Tuesday, 4th February, Rain joined Imerys for a critical minerals round table and a tour of its lithium pilot plant near Roche.

The event brought together a broad range of key figures from Cornwall’s mining and business sectors, including representatives from other critical mineral mining businesses, Camborne School of Mines, the University of Exeter, the Great Southwest, Cornwall Chamber of Commerce, and the Critical Minerals Association.

The Role of Cornwall in the UK’s Industrial Strategy

Speaking at the event, Rain highlighted the importance of Cornwall’s role in meeting the UK’s demand for critical minerals, saying:

“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.”

Investment and Jobs for Cornwall

Mark Hewson, representing Imerys UK, emphasised the importance of collaboration to ensure Cornwall gains national recognition for its role in the sector.

“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 finalising a pre-feasibility study for its ambitious project to build the world’s first co-located lithium mine and processing facility. If successful, the initiative will create at least 300 direct jobs, further strengthening Cornwall’s rich mining heritage.