Andrea Jenkyns, Greater Lincolnshire mayor, has signed the UK Steel Charter at British Steel’s Scunthorpe site, committing the region to prioritizing the use of domestically produced steel in public projects.
By signing the charter, the Greater Lincolnshire Combined County Authority pledged to strengthen support for the UK steel sector through procurement policies favoring British-produced steel wherever possible.
The initiative is designed to:
- Increase demand for UK-made steel,
- Support domestic manufacturing jobs,
- Strengthen local supply chains,
- Promote investment in the British steel industry.
The UK Steel Charter was developed by UK Steel in partnership with British Steel and other industry stakeholders. The charter encourages public authorities and infrastructure developers to consider social, environmental and economic benefits when sourcing steel products.
According to the Greater Lincolnshire authority, the commitment aligns with regional economic development goals and future infrastructure investment plans. The signing also reflects efforts to support industrial communities such as Scunthorpe, one of the UK’s major steelmaking centers.
Continued pressure on UK steel sector
The signing comes at a time when the UK steel industry continues to face challenges related to high energy costs, global overcapacity, import competition, and decarbonization investment requirements.
Industry participants see public procurement commitments as an important tool to support long-term sector stability and investment.