The previous operator of the Hemerdon tin and tungsten mine near Plympton caused low frequency noise disturbance and sleep deprivation to local people, before falling into insolvency in 2018.
Tungsten West, the current operator, has taken strides to fix the previous noise issues and this week announced that the Environment Agency, which is now "minded to grant" an environmental permit for the previously offending Mineral Processing Facility, has commenced a final six week public consultation. Neil Gawthorpe, CEO of the company, commented:
The receipt and acceptance of the draft permit for the MPF has been a positive milestone for the Company. It represents a significant step in securing the further funding required for the Project, and delivering our key objective of recommencing operations at the Hemerdon mine and providing an ethical and sustainable domestic supply of critical minerals.
The Environment Agency has a web page and video explaining the consultation process and the changes Tungsten West has made to the plant:
We are seeking your comments on the proposed decision for a new bespoke application for an environmental permit from Drakelands Restoration Limited for Hemerdon Mine Tungsten West Ltd Plympton PL7 5BWWe can take account of* Relevant environmental regulatory requirements and technical standards.* Information on local population and sensitive sites.* Comments on whether the right process is being used for the activity, for example whether the technology is the right one.* The shape and use of the land around the site in terms of its potential impact, whether that impact is acceptable and what pollution control or abatement may be required.* The impact of noise and odour from traffic on site.* Permit conditions by providing information that we have not been made aware of in the application, or by correcting incorrect information in the application (e.g. monitoring and techniques to control pollution).
