Tungsten West has confirmed that its Hemerdon mine near Plymouth, Devon, has been officially designated a strategic project under the European Union’s Critical Raw Materials strategy. The recognition is a significant milestone for the site, which hosts the world’s second-largest tungsten deposit and has the potential to meet up to 20% of global demand for the critical mineral.
CEO Jeff Court stated that the mine is “fully permitted and shovel ready,” with production potentially restarting by the end of 2026. However, to move forward, the company still needs to raise £69 million ($93 million) in private investment.
Originally operated by Australia’s Wolf Minerals Ltd., the mine fell into administration in 2018. Tungsten West acquired the site in 2019 and began interim operations in 2023.
Tungsten is highly valued for its extreme heat resistance and strength, making it indispensable in the production of ammunition, aerospace components, electronics, and cutting tools. Despite its importance, the Hemerdon project has so far received no UK government support—unlike lithium and tin initiatives in Cornwall that have benefited from significant funding.
Court highlighted the mine’s potential benefits for the UK economy, calling for more equitable government backing: “It’s great we have interest from the US and EU, but this is a UK project. Jobs, money into the economy, regional development—it’s all here.”
A spokesperson for the Department for Business and Trade noted that the UK’s upcoming Critical Minerals Strategy will address production improvements and financial support for domestic projects. “We welcomed the EU’s announcement of Tungsten West as a strategic project,” they added, indicating a broader intent to strengthen global supply chains in coordination with international partners.
