Alcan smelter going offline gets going online

　　A WEBSITE has been launched to keep people informed about the closure process at Northumberland’s biggest private sector employer.

　　Rio Tinto Alcan has created the website to allow the public and local stakeholders to keep up to date about what is happening at the doomed 512-job aluminium smelter at Lynemouth.

　　The web page – www.rtalynemouth.co.uk – will be regularly updated with the latest news and developments in the lengthy closure and de-commissioning process, and also features a dedicated Twitter feed, a media section and what’s on area.

　　Visitors to the site will also find a helpful Q&A section, as well as details of the company’s legacy scheme, and how to apply. RTA’s legacy fund is inviting applications from local groups and organisations for grants towards the cost of projects which will bring lasting benefits to communities such as Lynemouth, Ellington, Cresswell, Linton and Ashington. Regional economic development director, John McCabe, said: “The website provides a useful interactive forum so we’d encourage anyone with a query or suggestion to get in touch.”