South Crofty, the historic tin mine near Redruth in Cornwall, announced Thursday that it has completed dewatering operations, reaching the 400-meter level and clearing the way for the first tin production in the U.K. since 1998.
The mine, which first opened in the 16th century and closed in 1998 due to falling tin prices, was acquired by Cornish Metals Inc. in 2016. The company has invested £180 million in refurbishment, including new pumps, ventilation systems, and a processing plant.
First ore is expected in November 2026, with full production of 5,000 tonnes per year by 2028. Tin is a critical mineral for electronics soldering, EV batteries, and solar panels. 'This is a historic day for Cornwall,' said CEO Ken Armstrong.
Environmental and community concerns
While the project has created 230 construction jobs and promises 300 permanent positions, local environmental groups have raised concerns about water discharge and heavy metal contamination. The mine has secured a permit to discharge treated water into the Red River, a tributary that flows into St Ives Bay.
Surfers Against Sewage has called for independent water quality monitoring. 'Cornwall's economy depends on tourism and clean water. We cannot trade one for the other,' said campaign director Giles Bristow.
This is a historic day for Cornwall. We are bringing back an industry that defined this region for centuries, with modern environmental standards.
The U.K. government has designated tin as a critical mineral and provided a £25 million grant through the Automotive Transformation Fund. The mine's output is already under contract to several electronics manufacturers.
