I can’t speak for anything elsewhere regarding bloody complicated EU regs… but the site Alkemy have a lease and permit on is within Teesside freeport, it’s the UKs largest freeport and Government flagship for levelling up on Teesside.
Imports and exports are exempt from a lot of duty/tax and regulations in a freeport. Maybe that’s why it’s in this location - when you read the presentation… a LOT of lithium is going to be needed.
Presentation