A COMPANY behind a 1,000- job fertiliser mine says it is talking to potential customers around the world after confirming its project remains “on time and on budget”.

Sirius Minerals says interest remains high from global operators in its polyhalite venture, based near Whitby.

Chris Fraser, managing director and chief executive, said: “We are continuing detailed dialogue with commercial partners around the world, as interest in future supplies remains strong.”

The firm made a £14.7m operating loss in the six months to June 30, which was higher than the £4.7m a year ago.

However, officials say the higher number reflects a rise in activity on its project, which will extract the fertiliser polyhalite, reputed for encouraging strong crop growth, with production expected to get underway in late 2021.

Sirius will move its polyhalite underground to Wilton, near Redcar, where it will be stored before being delivered from a new harbour.