New insights into the distribution of the ore body and the impact of mining on the town mean that the urban transformation in Kiruna will claim more land.
On September 12, LKAB and Kiruna Municipality invited to a press meeting to provide information about, among other things, a phased plan for the updated impact area and new compensation principles.
Since the transformation of Kiruna began to be planned in 2004, LKAB has made forecasts of the land impact caused by the mine. The extent of the impact area has been updated over the years based on the shape and location of the ore body, the nature of the bedrock, measurement results and mining plans. This latest update means that more land now needs to be claimed.
LKAB is now also presenting a phased plan and prioritization for the areas affected and due for acquisition. The first area is around the school Triangelskolan. Relocation is not expected within the next few years, and the timing will depend on access to buildable land.
Our continued and future operations in Kiruna depend on an expanded urban transformation. This is a process that must start now to secure operations until – and beyond – 2035.
Larger areas will be gradually dismantled and relocated and new areas built up, as more land needs to be converted into mining industrial areas. A total of 6,000 people and 2,700 homes will be directly affected by this phase, over the next ten years.
Without a vibrant, prosperous and attractive community, we cannot continue to operate our business.
We understand that this places great demands on us, on the municipality, on community functions and not least on the residents who will need to move – something for which we will take responsibility. Extensive work is now starting with dialogue with affected property owners, residents, the municipality and authorities to manage the continued urban transformation. Together we can continue to develop Kiruna for the future, while securing LKAB’s operations for generations to come.
