The UK government has approved the development of West Cumbria Mining’s underground coking coal project, the country’s first new coal mine in 30 years. The mine received planning permission two years ago but has been caught in controversy over approvals. The new supply of coking coal will come from a new operation adjacent to the previously mined Haig Colliery in Cumbria. It is understood the coal is a 6% low ash, low phosphorus, high fluidity coal, and is very similar to US high vol A material. Around 85% of the coal produced will be exported to Europe and elsewhere. Previously, WCM has stated that in the first phase of development production will target around 0.50 million tonne per year of a product very similar to a typical US origin high vol A. Ultimate annual capacity is expected at around 2.5 million tonne saleable coal using a form of bord and pillar mining, known locally as run-out and pocket extraction. The coal will be hauled by rail to either the Redcar port for export to Europe, or Scunthorpe and Port Talbot Steelworks for domestic steel production. WCM is backed by private developer EMR Capital Resources, which has invested more than GBP 29 million in West Cumbria Mining since 2014
The UK government has approved the development of West Cumbria Mining’s underground coking coal project, the country’s first new coal mine in 30 years. The mine received planning permission two years ago but has been caught in controversy over approvals. The new supply of coking coal will come from a new operation adjacent to the previously mined Haig Colliery in Cumbria. It is understood the coal is a 6% low ash, low phosphorus, high fluidity coal, and is very similar to US high vol A material. Around 85% of the coal produced will be exported to Europe and elsewhere. Previously, WCM has stated that in the first phase of development production will target around 0.50 million tonne per year of a product very similar to a typical US origin high vol A. Ultimate annual capacity is expected at around 2.5 million tonne saleable coal using a form of bord and pillar mining, known locally as run-out and pocket extraction. The coal will be hauled by rail to either the Redcar port for export to Europe, or Scunthorpe and Port Talbot Steelworks for domestic steel production. WCM is backed by private developer EMR Capital Resources, which has invested more than GBP 29 million in West Cumbria Mining since 2014
