Teesside is set to undergo a significant transformation with the establishment of one of Europe’s largest lithium refineries, a project that promises to create approximately 1,700 jobs across construction, supply chain, and operational phases. The initiative was highlighted during a roundtable discussion at the Darlington Economic Campus, attended by key stakeholders including Paul Atherley, Chairman of Tees Valley Lithium, and Jonathan Reynolds MP, Secretary of State for the Department for Business, Innovation, Science and Trade.
The lithium refinery project is expected to contribute around £1 billion in gross value added to the Tees Valley, and approximately £2.1 billion to the wider UK economy. The first phase of the project aims to refine 25,000 tonnes of battery-grade lithium hydroxide annually, which accounts for nearly half of the UK Government’s Vision 2035 target. The design of the facility is scalable, with plans to increase production capacity to over 100,000 tonnes per year.
Atherley emphasised the importance of this project for the region, stating that it represents a shift towards future-facing industries rather than merely rebuilding traditional sectors. He noted that the Tees Valley Lithium initiative positions the UK strategically in the global energy transition landscape, which is considered one of the most significant transitions in history.
Support for the project has been robust, with over 320 businesses expressing their backing for the £185 million investment at Billingham. The positive response from local employers and stakeholders underscores the potential economic benefits and job creation that the lithium refinery will bring to the region. The discussions at the roundtable reflect a collective commitment to reindustrialisation that aligns with national goals for sustainable energy and economic growth.
