Lithium project boost as single regulator appointed

Plans to extract lithium from a former china clay pit in Cornwall have been given a boost, as campaigners continue to fight to protect the area.

The government has confirmed the Environment Agency will act as the main regulator for the Trelavour Lithium Project in St Dennis, in a move designed to speed up decisions on major schemes.

Cornish Lithium wants to redevelop the old pit to produce high-grade lithium, a key material used in batteries for electric cars and other clean energy technology.

The company said it expected to create more than 300 skilled local jobs and eventually produce up to 10,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium hydroxide each year.

The site, which was closed for china clay production in 2016, has already been at the centre of local concern, with campaigners raising questions about the impact on the environment and community.

The project has been designated as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project by the government, meaning consent needs to be given by it rather than the local planning authority.

The Environment Agency said the new system would mean developers dealt with one lead regulator instead of several, cutting delays without lowering standards.

It said it would co-ordinate with organisations such as Natural England so advice was given earlier and more clearly.

Agency area director Steve Marks said: "Having one clear environmental regulator will help us work more effectively with our partners across government to regulate projects such as Trelavour Lithium.

"This new approach aims to reduce duplication and avoid unnecessary delays, whilst ensuring we apply learnings from the impacts of Cornwall's mining heritage to protect and improve the environment."

Officials said the changes would not weaken environmental protections, and that all legal requirements, impact assessments and safety checks would still apply in full.

Construction at the site is expected to begin in 2028, with planning and permit applications due to be submitted in 2027.

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