Phosphate Rock Silo Number 15 At Ici Works, Billingham

Phosphate rock silo number 15 at ICI works in Billingham is a Grade II* listed structure built in 1928-1929. It is made of reinforced concrete and features a steel gantry. The silo measures 200 feet long, 80 feet wide, and 47 feet 6 inches high, with a parabolic cross-section supported by reinforced concrete arches. At the top, there is a steel-framed cage that houses a conveyor belt, which connects to another belt in the south tower and extends down to the wharf via the steel gantry. The ends of the silo have reinforced concrete ribs, and the floor includes a series of circular openings that facilitate the feeding of rock phosphate to an underground conveyor for emptying the silo. Designed by Monnoyer British Construction Ltd, this silo was intended for storing phosphate rock imported for fertilizer production. Its parabolic shape allows for the storage of large quantities without structural issues. This silo is the earliest surviving example of its kind in England.