Anglo American has reported an increase in its contribution to the regional economy over the last year through the Woodsmith Project, its game-changing polyhalite mine near Whitby.

In 2023 the project generated an additional £305 million to the region’s economy, bringing the total contribution to £1.5 billion since construction started in 2017.

The project is now employing over 1,400 local people, which is 70% of the total workforce, far exceeding what was expected at this point in construction.

The company continues to deliver wide-ranging community initiatives across the area and last year, its social investment programme included the launch of a new educational outreach programme and enabled the creation of 73 new local business start-ups.

The company has today announced its global annual results and the difference the Woodsmith Project is making to the regional economy is again significant.

The latest Social Impact Report highlights the importance of the significant investment the company is making in the region.

“We are passionate about building a long-term economic legacy in the region,” said Matt Parsons, Social Performance Manager for Anglo American’s Woodsmith Project.

“Last year we supported 73 new business start-ups and were proud to see the launch of ‘Made in Whitby’. This scheme supported a group of local businesses to create a joint brand to promote high quality locally-sourced products to broaden their reach.”

The new education programme, Achieve, is supporting students across Redcar and Cleveland, Whitby and Scarborough to reach their potential.

“Achieve offers extensive support for the schools in our local area as we believe all children should be equipped to achieve their potential, regardless of their background. Achieve gives all children the same opportunities to thrive. We have also engaged with over 8,000 students over the last year through broader outreach,” added Matt.

Jordan Philliskirk, Assistant Headteacher for Achievement & Standards at Scalby School, Scarborough said: “Achieve has been imperative in raising the aspirations of our students whilst exposing them to incredible opportunities. It has helped develop their academic potential as well as promoting fundamental social skills, challenge and resilience. This is a programme that we have been crying out for for many years now.”

Tom McCulley, CEO of the Project, added: “Our purpose at Anglo American is to re-imagine mining to improve people’s lives and we are doing that right here in North Yorkshire and Teesside - helping to make a positive difference locally and in the world for decades to come.”