The UK and Welsh Governments have announced a significant £1 billion investment to transform Shotton Mill in Deeside, North Wales, into the UK's largest recycled paper manufacturer.
This redevelopment will safeguard 147 existing jobs at the site and create 220 new green jobs once the facility is fully operational.
The project, led by Turkish containerboard and corrugated cardboard manufacturer Eren Holdings, which acquired the mill in 2021, will benefit from nearly £13 million in funding from the Welsh Government. The UK Government’s export credit agency, UK Export Finance (UKEF), has also provided £136 million in support, with the expectation that the site will export 10% of its turnover within five years.
UK Business and Trade Secretary Jonathan Reynolds hailed the investment as a "massive vote of confidence" in the Welsh economy, stating: "This transformative investment will not only support local skilled jobs but raise living standards in the community."
Green Focus and Job Creation
The Welsh Government confirmed that the redeveloped plant will produce almost entirely recycled paper while purifying and recycling its wastewater for reuse within the system. This eco-friendly approach will help reduce carbon emissions by an amount equivalent to the annual emissions of 190,000 homes.
Welsh Economy Minister Rebecca Evans added: "Our £13 million support will help ensure this is delivered whilst safeguarding and creating local jobs, ensuring that the community is at the heart of the business’ success for many years to come."
The redevelopment of Shotton Mill, with its rich industrial history spanning over a century, marks a significant step forward for sustainable manufacturing in Wales.
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