Steel-making company Tata Steel UK said Port Talbot-based Morfa Coke Ovens made its last ‘push’ on Wednesday, making it the last day of operation.
The initial notice was released by CEO Rajesh Nair on Monday, stating to cease the operation of Morfa Coke Ovens as it has been deteriorating over many months despite many efforts by the team.
Steelworker Terry Leyshon triggered the last action, making the final push, about four decades after his father, David, made the plant’s first-ever push in 1981.
In late January, the firm planned to restructure its UK plant by initiating a laying off of about 2,500 job positions across the region.
The firm also said it plans to invest about £1.25 billion ($1.60 billion) in electric arc furnace technology for its Port Talbot and asset upgrades to secure better production in the UK’s steelmaker. This investment is supported by the UK Government which has committed up to £500 million to enable the transformation.
“As part of our efforts to stem our current losses, and given the condition of the assets, we propose to close the heavy-end iron and steelmaking assets at Port Talbot within this calendar year in a phased manner,” said Nair.
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