Cornwall Mining Alliance launched

The launch of the Cornwall Mining Alliance was hosted by Camborne School of Mines and the Environment and Sustainability Institute last night (Thursday).

More than 80 guests gathered to celebrate the diversity and expertise of businesses and organisations related to mining in Cornwall.

An online directory – www.cornwallminingalliance.org – now has 69 member organisations in sectors ranging from major international mining operations to individual consultancy expertise.

Sections in the directory cover geology, mining and minerals processing expertise, environmental and social impact assessment, analytical services, research and training, professional services, software, energy, contractors and supply chain services, active mines and mining heritage.

While Cornwall has been celebrating its mining heritage this year, with the tenth anniversary of the Cornish Mining World Heritage site, and Poldark on our television screens, the Cornwall Mining Alliance launch provides a timely reminder that Cornwall is still at the forefront of expertise and innovation in mining.

The setting up of the web directory was led by the Cornish Chamber of Mines and Minerals and sponsored by the University of Exeter’s Camborne School of Mines.

One of the drivers was the interest from the Department of International Trade in developing mining services as a valuable export opportunity for the UK.

Bernard Ballard, chairman of the Cornish Chamber of Mines and Minerals said: “Our aim is to further the interests and business opportunities of our members.

“The Cornwall Mining Alliance website will not only showcase Cornwall’s global expertise but provide an important focal point so that new customers can find our services.”

Professor Frances Wall, of Camborne School of Mines and the Environment and Sustainability Institute at the University of Exeter, said: “The impressive network of companies here in Cornwall shows that the heritage of mining expertise continues.

“The links are important for the university – not only in helping with student training and employment but also in fostering collaborative research and innovation so that we continue the tradition of world-leading mining expertise in the county.”