A groundbreaking £1 billion project at Shotton Mill on Deeside is set to revolutionise paper production, creating 220 jobs in Wales. The initiative led by Eren Holdings aims to establish the UK’s largest recycled paper manufacturer, capable of producing 750,000 tonnes of cardboard annually. This significant investment represents a major foreign manufacturing venture in the UK, with additional plans for a state-of-the-art tissue paper line to complement the development.
The Welsh Government has pledged nearly £13 million in support of the project, with an additional £136 million commitment from UK Export Finance, underlining the government’s dedication to boosting sustainable industries and employment opportunities. The transformation of Shotton Mill into a cutting-edge paper production facility is expected to catalyse Wales’ transition towards achieving net-zero targets while fostering a greener economy.
Construction is already underway for a new paper mill at the Northern Gateway site, focusing on producing essential paper products like toilet rolls and kitchen towels. This development, overseen by Industrie Cartarie Tronchetti Group, is set to generate over 400 jobs and revitalise the former RAF Sealand base area. The revamped Shotton Mill aims to shift the UK from being a net importer to a net exporter of cardboard, thereby reducing waste and enhancing domestic recycling capabilities.
Welsh Government Minister for Economy, Energy and Planning, Rebecca Evans, hailed the investment as a significant step towards building a prosperous and environmentally conscious economy in Wales. With plans for self-sufficiency in energy through innovative solutions like a hydrogen-enabled combined heat and power plant, the redeveloped site is poised to set new standards in sustainable paper manufacturing.
Eren Holding’s commitment to cutting-edge technology at Shotton Mill reflects their vision of creating a world-class facility that will lead the UK’s recycling efforts. This long-term investment not only promises economic growth and job creation but also signifies a transformative milestone in the region’s industrial history. The project has garnered praise from government officials, with Wales Secretary Jo Stevens emphasising its positive impact on local communities and the broader economy.
As the manufacturing sector in Wales receives a significant boost from this landmark development, the government’s focus on fostering business-friendly policies and attracting sustainable investments is evident. The Shotton Paper Mill project exemplifies the collaborative efforts between the UK and Welsh Governments to drive economic growth, create employment opportunities, and promote environmental sustainability.