Design of new electric arc furnace revealed

The building housing the furnace would cover 34,000 sq m (8.4 acres)

The size and design of a new electric arc furnace planned for Teesside has been revealed.

British Steel said the new furnace at Lackenby, Redcar, will use greener technology to melt scrap and produce steel.

A planning application submitted to Redcar and Cleveland Council includes computer generated images of a 64m (210ft) tall building covering 34,000 sq m (8.4 acres).

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen claimed it would "see Teesside restored to its rightful place as a global leader in the steel industry".

The furnace will generate heat via an electric arc between electrodes.

Depending on the source of electricity, the process can produce lower carbon emissions compared to old blast furnaces which use coking coal to supply the energy needed.

Scrap metal can be recycled using an electric arc furnace

The proposed plant is 10m (33ft) taller than the Middlesbrough Transporter Bridge, making it one of the biggest structures on Teesside’s skyline, a spokesperson for neighbouring Teesworks said.