Vancouver-based Cornish Metals Inc. has released a substantial progress report on its flagship South Crofty tin project located in Cornwall, United Kingdom. The company, which trades on both the AIM and TSX Venture Exchange, is moving forward with a comprehensive work program funded by a successful capital raise completed earlier this year.
Underground Operations Accelerate
Significant strides have been made in the critical task of dewatering the historic mine. Refurbishment of the New Cook’s Kitchen (NCK) mid-shaft pump station, situated roughly 360 metres below the surface, is proceeding according to plan. Crews have successfully removed all old pumps, piping, and steelwork. The installation of new, permanent pump bases is now well advanced, with the entire station expected to be operational before the end of 2025.
Once this work is finished, submersible pumps will be lowered to a depth of approximately 730 metres below surface, marking the resumption of the major dewatering effort. The company projects that the water level will be drawn down to this lower pump station level by mid-2026.
Concurrently, underground development has commenced at the No. 1 level, about 50 metres down. This involves roughly 600 metres of lateral development to establish essential infrastructure for the NCK Shaft rock-hoisting system, including skip discharge and rock handling facilities. This phase serves a dual purpose: it creates critical infrastructure while functioning as a training platform for the newly recruited mining crews. They are being trained on modern, mechanized methods using recently acquired equipment, such as single-boom jumbo drill rigs, as Cornish Metals builds its life-of-mine mobile fleet.
Surface Construction on Schedule
Activity above ground is equally robust. The second phase of excavation for the new pre-concentration plant began in late November 2025 as scheduled. Following initial topsoil removal that started in August, this stage focuses on clearing overburden and rock across the building's entire footprint.
Construction of the new workshop and stores facility at the old Bartles Foundry site is also progressing well. Bulk excavation, foundations, and steelwork are complete, and the installation of building cladding is now underway. Major works for this facility are on track for completion by the end of the first quarter of 2026.
Furthermore, the company has completed Phase 1 of the Mine Dry refurbishment, which included modernizing changing rooms and the canteen, in October 2025. Phase 2, which will add more changing facilities and office space, is currently in progress and is also slated for a Q1 2026 finish.
Leadership Confirms Project is On Track
Don Turvey, Chief Executive Officer of Cornish Metals, expressed satisfaction with the project's momentum. He stated that the work program has continued steadily throughout the year and is progressing in line with the company's latest guidance. Turvey highlighted the dual importance of the underground development, noting it provides vital training for new miners while advancing critical infrastructure.
The South Crofty project represents one of the most significant tin development opportunities in a strategic jurisdiction. With dewatering on schedule and surface facilities taking shape, Cornish Metals continues to advance its plan to bring this historic mining district back into production.
