British Steel to Consult on Ending Steelmaking in Scunthorpe
British Steel has revealed plans to start a consultation regarding the potential shutdown of its blast furnaces, rod mill, and steelmaking activities in Scunthorpe. This decision comes after the company’s unsuccessful attempt to secure £500 million in Government funding. If these proposals move forward, it would mark the end of 160 years of steel production in Scunthorpe.
Shutting down steelmaking in Scunthorpe would mean the UK loses vital domestic capabilities for producing rail, heavy sections, and light sections—key products for the country’s transport, infrastructure, and construction industries. As a result, customers would have no choice but to turn to international suppliers.
In its announcement, British Steel laid out three possible paths forward:
- Closing the blast furnaces, steelmaking operations, and Scunthorpe Rod Mill by early June 2025
- Shutting down the blast furnaces and steelmaking operations in September 2025
- Closing the blast furnaces and steelmaking operations at a later date beyond September 2025
Commenting on the recent developments, Gareth Stace, the Director General of UK Steel, expressed his deep concern:
“The proposal to shut down iron and steel production in Scunthorpe is a heartbreaking and crucial moment for our industry. It’s a devastating blow to the 3,400 workers, our sector, and the entire Scunthorpe community. This hit to UK steelmaking will resonate throughout the British economy.
We need to consider all options and ensure a secure future for our steel industry. Ending steel production at British Steel would leave a significant gap in our capacity to meet the nation’s future demands and would represent a serious threat to our national security.
This heartbreaking decision will lead to significant disruption and damage to our supply chains, putting jobs, businesses, and the country’s economic strength at risk. The steel industry is in a state of crisis, and UK Steel has been raising the alarm consistently. The Government must urgently return to the negotiating table to prevent our sector from losing its lifeblood and to take strong action to revitalize the steel industry.”
Contact Information
Louise Young
Campaigns and Engagement Manager
UK Steel
07388 370176
lyoung@makeuk.org
