CONSTRUCTION work has formally started on a major project to create a new fertiliser mine in the North York Moors.

The Woodsmith Mine development, by Sirius Minerals, aims to extract the fertiliser polyhalite from land near Whitby and is expected to directly create around 1,000 jobs, plus more along the supply chain.

Preparatory works have been ongoing since January but now Sirius has confirmed that formal construction has now begun.

The North York Moors National Park Authority continues to work with the company to ensure that the amenities of local residents and the surrounding sensitive environment are adequately safeguarded from the impacts of the construction.

Arrangements have been put in place to ensure that the agreed environmental mitigation and compensation works detailed in an associated S106 agreement will deliver the positive mitigation measures proposed to help offset the impacts of the mine development.

Andy Wilson, chief executive officer at the North York Moors National Park said: “We appreciate that there will be some disruption during the construction stage of the mine and are working closely with all parties to carry out mitigation and ensure that we can deliver the range of positive projects funded by the S106 agreement.

“The Authority has appointed two key posts to lead on the monitoring of the mine construction.

“Briony Fox, director of Polyhalite Projects joined us on April 3 and Robert Smith will take up the position of senior minerals planner later in May.

“He will be responsible for ensuring the mine is delivered in accordance with the very detailed planning approval.”

A statement from Sirius said there has been a smooth transition between preparatory works and formal construction works.

Gareth Edmunds, external affairs director at Sirius said: “We continue to make good progress with the development of the Woodsmith Mine and continue to progress in line with schedule and budget.”

The mine was formally named in February in honour of two of the project’s original geologists, Peter Woods and Dr Frederick Smith.

Production is planned to get underway in late 2021.