On this day in 2024: pledge of support after Woodsmith Project cuts
On this day in 2024, the York Press reported that York and North Yorkshire local government representatives had pledged to help staff made redundant by cuts to a planned £7bn fertiliser mine.
The move followed Anglo American's announcement of its intention to "slow the development" of the Woodsmith Project mine, which had been due to open near Sneaton, south of Whitby, in 2027.
As reported at the time, more than 2000 people, including contractors, had been working on the scheme, but the number was expected to be cut to 900, including contractors, within the ensuing 12 months.
James Farrar, interim head of paid services at York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority, said at the time: "The announcement surrounding the future of Anglo American's Woodsmith Project is understandably of concern to the many staff, and associated businesses, which depend on the long-term viability of the site.
"The mine is a major regional employer, drawing its workforce from Scarborough, Whitby, and other nearby rural and urban areas.
"While York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority is disappointed to learn of Anglo American's decision to slow development at the Woodsmith Project, we consider the mine integral to our economic ambitions as a region.
"The Combined Authority and the York and North Yorkshire Mayor have, therefore, committed to ensuring every affected employee at the Woodsmith Project is connected to opportunities for reemployment, skills training, and small-business support.
"I'd like to reassure those affected workers that we are listening to you and that, through a multi-agency approach, we will ensure you have access to the full range of available support services.
"Meanwhile we will continue to work closely with Anglo American in navigating this challenging period and supporting the company's long-term commitment to polyhalite fertiliser extraction in our region."
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