Home Blog

Open Doors Returns to Northern Ireland to Inspire Future Construction Talent 

0

Northern Ireland’s construction industry is once again opening its doors to the next generation of talent, as the Open Doors initiative returns from Monday 23rd to Saturday 28th March 2026. Delivered by Build UK in partnership with Construction Futures, the initiative will see construction companies across Northern Ireland host pre-booked tours of live sites, offices, manufacturing facilities, builders’ merchants and training centres. The aim is to inspire students, career changers and jobseekers to explore the diverse and rewarding careers available across the sector.

This year the Department for the Economy joins the initiative as a key partner for the region. Through its Careers Service, the Department provides impartial, all-age careers advice and guidance to individuals in education, employment, training and those who are unemployed, with a particular focus on supporting people who may be vulnerable to social exclusion. Their involvement will help expand the reach of Open Doors across Northern Ireland, enabling more people to access information and inspiration about the wide range of careers in construction, while also highlighting the industry’s vital contribution to skills, inclusion, and economic growth across the region.

Northern Ireland’s first Open Doors week in March 2025 welcomed more than 500 students and members of the public to over 35 events across 18 locations, with 15 companies generously opening their doors. The event also received strong support from representatives of the Department of Education and the Department for the Economy; members from the Northern Ireland Assembly and the Northern Ireland Skills Council; as well as the Mayor of Antrim & Newtownabbey, and the Lord Mayor of Belfast.

With the latest CITB Construction Workforce Outlook estimating that the UK industry needs to recruit around 50,000 additional workers each year – including over 5,000 in Northern Ireland by 2029 – Open Doors offers an invaluable opportunity to showcase the variety of roles, technologies and career pathways available in construction.

“A fantastic 88% of visitors to Open Doors 2025 said that they’d be more likely to consider a career in construction after their visit.” said Tamsin Parkes, Open Doors Project Manager at Build UK.

“This shows that giving people the chance to see first-hand the wide range of roles available and meet the talented teams building the world around us has the potential to inspire long-lasting career choices in our industry. I would encourage companies across the industry to open their doors next March and show there is a role for everyone in construction, whatever their background, interests or skills.”

Fionnuala McKenna, Head of Strategic Development at Construction Futures, added:

“Open Doors really is a fantastic way to see what it’s like to work in construction… young people rarely get direct access to sites, so this is a unique chance to experience real working environments and understand how many different opportunities exist.

“There’s a career for everyone in construction – male or female, hands-on or office-based – and planting that seed early can help shape someone’s future.”

Mark Spence, Chief Executive of the Construction Employers Federation (CEF), said:

“One of the biggest challenges facing our industry is attracting and retaining skilled people. Through Construction Futures, we’re working together to make construction a first-choice career. Open Doors provides the perfect platform for young people and career changers to see how vast and modern the sector really is – from trades and project management to digital, design and data roles.”

Throughout the week, companies across Northern Ireland will host strictly pre-booked visits for schools, colleges, universities, and those considering a career change. Visitors will gain an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at how projects are planned, built and managed, while meeting professionals working across disciplines including engineering, sustainability, architecture, and technology.

Construction businesses of all sizes are encouraged to take part in Open Doors 2026 and can register now by visiting opendoors.construction. Information and support is available for those looking to host events for the first time.

For details of participating sites and to book visits (from 12th January 2026), schools and colleges can also check www.constructionfuturesni.com/open-doors-live-bookings.

Watch the Open Doors 2025 video here.

About Open Doors
Open Doors is a UK-wide initiative led by Build UK, taking visitors behind the scenes of construction sites and workplaces to showcase the breadth of career opportunities available. Events for Open Doors 2026 will take place between 23rd – 28th March 2026 and include everything from housing developments to infrastructure projects, as well as offices, manufacturing facilities, and training centres.

About Build UK
Build UK is the leading representative organisation for the UK construction industry. Bringing together clients, contractors, trade associations, and professional bodies, it promotes the value of construction and drives collaboration to strengthen the sector.

About Construction Futures
Construction Futures is an industry-driven collaboration between the Construction Employers Federation (CEF) and employee representatives from Unite and GMB unions in Northern Ireland. Formed in response to the 2023 EY Industry Skills Review, it works to address the skills shortage by aligning education with industry needs and promoting sustainable, long-term careers in construction.

About the Department for the Economy’s Careers Service
The Department for the Economy’s Careers Service provides impartial careers advice and guidance to individuals in education, employment, training, and to the unemployed, with a priority focus on people who are facing or vulnerable to social exclusion. It offers personalised careers services on an all-age basis, provided by professionally trained and qualified advisers.

Keep the Festive Break Flowing: Quick Holiday Tips for Students and Businesses

0

As the student halls fall silent and offices begin to wind down for the festive season, NI Water is jingling the bells to remind everyone to give their premises a little Christmas care. Before you dash away on your holidays, make sure to safeguard your property from frozen pipes. Remember, the only things bursting with excitement this Christmas should be presents, not water pipes.

Don’t let a leaky pipe turn your holidays into a washout with NI Water’s top tips to keep your water pipes safe:

  • Take a sleigh ride to every space: check all unoccupied premises – even Santa’s little-used workshop needs a look-in!
  • Wrap up warm – pipes included: insulate your water pipes just as you would your favourite Christmas jumper.
  • Know your reindeer routes: locate your stop valve and make sure all your elves (fellow uni students or staff) know how to turn it off in a flash.
  • Neighbourly cheer: If your business is next to an empty unit, jot down a contact number for the estate agent or owner – just in case Jack Frost causes a leak next door!
  • Christmas back-up plan: consider what you’d do if your water had to be switched off for a while. Got a contingency plan to keep things merry and bright?
  • Meter magic for businesses: if your business has a meter, know it’s hiding place and check it more often than you check your Advent calendar! A big jump in numbers could mean a sneaky leak.
  • Festive closure checklist: if you’re shutting up shop for the holidays, set your heating timer and have someone pop by regularly to check all is calm, all is bright.
  • Speed dial for Santa’s plumber: keep the number of a plumber who’s ready to dash over – even on a silent night! Type in your postcode at www.watersafe.org.uk to find your nearest accredited plumbing business.
  • Insurance icebreaker: make sure your insurance covers burst pipes – peace of mind is the best present of all.

What to do if a burst pipe tries to steal your Christmas cheer:

  • Be a Christmas star – act fast: Turn off your stop valve (righty-tighty, clockwise!)
  • Call in the Christmas Miracle Maker: Phone your plumber straight away – type in your postcode at www.watersafe.org.uk to find your nearest accredited plumbing business.
  • Check your list twice: Notify your insurance company to keep everything wrapped up and worry-free.

Just like a surprise guest turning up at your Christmas party, large leaks that slip under the radar can cause quite the stir on the water supply system.

flatfair rolls out Tenant Guarantor across 1,000 homes

0

Deposit alternative specialists, flatfair, has announced the rollout of its new Tenant Guarantor product in partnership with residential real estate giant, Heimstaden, covering 1,000 Build-to-Rent (BTR) units over three sites.

The launch, in January next year, strengthens flatfair’s positioning as a one-stop shop for tenant onboarding admin, combining Tenant Guarantor with its No Deposit product to deliver a faster, cheaper and more frictionless move-in for renters and operators.

For many tenants, the requirement for a guarantor can become a major barrier to securing a home, particularly for international renters, graduates, relocators and anyone without access to a UK-based guarantor. flatfair says the new product is designed to remove friction at the point of application, while providing operators with a consistent, resident-friendly onboarding experience at scale.

Guarantor requirements are already common in the market. Separate survey reporting suggests around one in five renters have been required to provide a guarantor, while official figures indicate 21% of landlords required a guarantor for their most recent letting.

Approvals within 48 hours

Under Tenant Guarantor, flatfair says approval will be provided within 48 hours once the tenant has submitted all required information, helping speed up decision-making and reduce delays during onboarding.

“Moving home is still too often defined by upfront cost and admin friction,” said Gary Wright, CEO of flatfair.

“By combining Tenant Guarantor with our No Deposit offer, we’re making the move-in journey simpler and more affordable for renters, while giving BTR operators a consistent process that supports a great resident experience at scale.”

flatfair says deposit alternatives are increasingly front-of-mind for tenants and estimates its No Deposit option can reduce upfront move-in costs by more than 70% – with a clear one-off fee, no hidden charges, and no renewal payments. The company adds that “deposit alternative” remains consistently among tenants’ top search criteria.

The announcement comes as the sector prepares for the implementation of the new Renters’ Rights Act. Phase 1 of reforms will begin on May 1 2026, including the abolition of Section 21 and a shift away from fixed-term assured shorthold tenancies to open-ended periodic tenancies.

Wright added: “As the market adapts, onboarding processes that are both resident-friendly and operationally robust are likely to become increasingly important, helping operators manage risk and maintain consistent standards while ensuring renters are not locked out by administrative barriers.”

Reflections on an amazing chapter and farewell

0

With a heavy heart, everyone at LEICHT Contracts (London) and LEICHT Küchen AG wish to extend a sincere farewell to Sarah Edwards, as she embarks on a new career opportunity.

Sarah Edwards explains, “Following over 16 years within the contract kitchen industry and 6.5 years with LEICHT Contracts, I have made the incredibly difficult decision to step down as Managing Director to join my family’s business outside of the kitchen and construction sector. Deciding to leave LEICHT Contracts has been a very hard decision for me; my love for the company and the entire design industry has been the source of my drive and creativity for as long as I can remember. I have come to a moment in my life now, where I want to surround myself with my family and ultimately forge a new future that is uniquely mine.

Sarah’s time at LEICHT Contracts has been truly extraordinary, a journey marked by both professional achievement and personal connection. She didn’t just establish a thriving contracts business; she cultivated a genuine family within the team – a place where everyone’s talents were nurtured.

Her vision, dedication, and genuine empathy have been a constant source of inspiration, leaving an indelible mark on the company’s culture and success. The positive, supportive environment she championed is a significant part of her lasting legacy here.

LEICHT is incredibly grateful for her hard work and leadership over the years, and while it is sad to see her go, the company wishes her every success in her next chapter.

Matt Goddon will step into the position of Managing Director in January 2026. Sharing the same enthusiasm and confidence in the LEICHT product as Sarah, Matt recognises the significance of designing with integrity while prioritising a bespoke service and dependable delivery of everything we do.

Since joining Sarah and the LEICHT team 5 years ago, Matt has flourished under her guidance and mentorship, progressing from Head of Design to Design Director. His evolution into an inspiring business leader makes him the ideal candidate to propel the LEICHT brand and the contracts business to new heights.

Matt Goddon says, “From business colleague and mentor to a close friend, Sarah has been a continual inspiration and positive influence on my career at LEICHT Contracts. She is the original source behind the success of our award-winning contracts division. Sarah has been pivotal in enhancing daily operations, developing design schemes, initiating new business and development opportunities, and sharing her expertise and knowledge of the very best brands and product innovations in the marketplace. Upholding a substantial legacy is a challenge I embrace; I am certain of my ability to lead our team in executing our vision and brand objectives as we move into the future. Thank you so much for all your help and support over the last few years Sarah, you’ll be deeply missed.”

Both brand and business would like to take this opportunity to reassure its customers that LEICHT Contracts continue to hold its strong and stable position in the marketplace. The senior leadership team will continue to operate the business with the same level of focus, sense of community, and customer-first approach that its clients and the industry are accustomed to.

Harald Blessing will remain as Board Director, and to further the support Matt’s transition to Managing Director, LEICHT Contracts administer the immediate promotion of James ‘Jim’ Williams, from Head of Contracts to Installation Director. The company’s strategy for well-managed, sustainable growth remains unchanged and will continue to be underpinned by the strength, stability, and future growth of parent company, LEICHT Küchen AG.

Sarah concludes, “My time at LEICHT Contracts has been marked by many accomplishments in which I find immense satisfaction. I will reflect on this period of my life with great pride and gratitude. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone at LEICHT for their steadfast support, as well as expressing appreciation to the many clients who have entrusted me with their business and partnered on projects over the years – it has truly been an honour and a privilege to work with you.”

Avocado celebrates five major milestones in 2025 as partners pass 2000 sales 

0

Avocado Property Agents has announced five major milestones for 2025, including surpassing 2,000 completed property sales since launching in 2020, expanding its network to more than 40 agents and securing a third consecutive national award win for its operating model.

Since its launch in 2020, Avocado says completed over 2,000 property sales in September – a landmark moment that now stands at 2150. The firm has been named among the top five fastest-growing estate agency brands in 2025.

Avocado also pointed to continued momentum through typically uncertain periods, reporting that in the Budget-month of November, it delivered sales agreed equivalent to 113% of available stock.

The firm has continued to grow its partner network, with over 40 estate agents now part of the brokerage and additional agents signed up and preparing to launch across areas including the Norfolk Coast, Oxfordshire, Basingstoke, Wiltshire and the West of England.

In recognition of its approach, Avocado has been named Best New Model Agency for the third year running (2023, 2024 and 2025) at a national awards programme – becoming the first agency to win the same category three years in a row.

Excited about what comes next

Commercial performance has also broken internal records in 2025, with Avocado highlighting standout results from multiple partners. The brokerage said Dan and Neil were on track to beat their previous record of banked business and to exceed £700,000 for the year, while two solo Avocado partners are each expected to pass £250,000 – both of them working independently and without a physical office.

Looking ahead, Avocado has also confirmed a high-profile fundraising challenge for next year. At the 2026 London Marathon, Avocado founder Ian Macbeth has been approved by Guinness World Records to attempt to become the fastest male marathon runner wearing an inflatable emoji costume. Further details, including the chosen emoji, target time and charity information, will be shared in 2026.

Avocado founder, Ian Macbeth, said: “2025 has been a huge year for us. Hitting 2,000 completed sales since launch is a proud moment, but what matters most is what sits behind it – great agents, great service and a model that lets people build serious businesses without needing to be tied to an office. To win Best New Model Agency three years in a row is a real honour, and I’m excited about what comes next as we head into 2026.”

ASSA ABLOY achieves ISO 27001 certificationacross multiple sites and business units

0

ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA is proud to announce that it has achieved ISO 27001 certification across multiple sites and business units – underlining the company’s strong commitment to information security.


The certification has now been granted to 15 key ASSA ABLOY sites across Europe, including ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA DAS R&D; ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions Nordic Business Area; and ASSA ABLOY Ltd in Willenhall, UK.

ISO 27001 is the global standard that defines best practice for managing information security risks. Addressing evolving cyber threats and strengthening resilience across digital ecosystems, it demonstrates that an organisation has implemented systematic controls to protect information assets – providing assurance to customers, partners and regulators.

Achieving ISO 27001 certification reflects ASSA ABLOY’s dedication to digital security, not just physical security. It proves that the company’s products and digital services are developed and managed within a rigorously controlled environment, where risks are continually assessed, data is protected by design, and resilience is built into every stage of the process.

Furthermore, while ISO 27001 is not legally mandated in the security industry, the certifications demonstrate ASSA ABLOY’s commitment to going beyond the baseline requirements to provide a true competitive advantage for its customers. They also underline ASSA ABLOY’s commitment to meeting the requirements of the EU’s NIS2 directive and preparing for the Cyber Resilience Act. Alongside ISO 27001, the company’s secure development practices ensure products are designed with cybersecurity in mind and undergo rigorous risk assessments and incident reporting.

Kelly Gill, Senior Vice President & Chief Technology Officer at ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA, comments:
“The days when security threats to businesses were only physical are long gone. Today, we find ourselves in a world where the digital environment poses even more serious and constantly evolving challenges.

“At ASSA ABLOY, our approach to security is embedded in every stage of product development and service delivery, not least the digital space. Certifications like ISO 27001, as well as our adherence to NIS2 and the CRA, show our determination to safeguard customer data and ensure operational integrity.

“The journey doesn’t stop here. We are now expanding the scope of ISO 27001 certification across the business, ensuring that customers and partners can place even greater trust in ASSA ABLOY for secure and compliant digital solutions.”

The full list of ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA business units and sites to achieve the ISO 27001 certification to date include:

  • ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions Romania
  • ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions EMEIA DAS R&D, ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions Americas Technology Solutions and Group IT R&D Services (Krakow and Stockholm sites)
  • DoorBird GmbH, Berlin
  • ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions Hungary
  • ASSA ABLOY Opening Solutions Nordic Business Area – Finland, Denmark, Norway, Sweden (three sites in Finland and Sweden, one in Denmark, and one in Norway)
  • ASSA ABLOY Ltd in Willenhall, UK
  • ASSA ABLOY Sicherheitstechnik GmbH Berlin and Albstadt sites (Berlin certified since 2021)

Learn more about ASSA ABLOY here: https://www.assaabloy.com/group/en.

RECORD HAUL OF TOYS SET TO BRING FESTIVE CHEER TO COMMUNITIES

0

Generous JCB employees have delivered another record year for the company’s annual Christmas Toy Appeal – donating an amazing 1,787 gifts.

Donations poured into 15 different collection points across the company’s UK plants when the appeal was launched in November, beating last year’s total of 1,700 presents.  Now the bulk of the gifts have been handed over to Stoke-on-Trent charity the Hubb Foundation for distribution to families in the greatest need.

Hubb Foundation Operations Manager Tom Beecham said: “JCB’s Christmas Toy Appeal means so much to us as a charity and it means so much to the children and families we work with in Stoke-on-Trent. Christmas is a challenging time of year, so to bring some happiness and positivity to children at this time of year is wonderful. We can’t thank JCB and all the employees enough for their ongoing generosity.”

The first batch of gifts was delivered to thrilled pupils at the New Ford Academy in Smallthorne, Stoke-on-Trent by JCB-sponsored athlete and Olympic silver medallist Adam Burgess and JCB apprentices Kitty Hulme, Lewis Durham, and Lucy Pepper.

Deputy Head Tracy Moller said: “It was wonderful to see the excitement on the children’s faces as the gifts were distributed. We would like to thank all the fabulous employees at JCB for their generous donations.”

Since the appeal’s launch in 2022, employees have donated almost 6,000 gifts for distribution to children and young people. In Wrexham, gifts donated by JCB Transmissions’ employees are being given to the Salvation Army for local distribution. A number of gifts were also donated to Cheadle Primary School for distribution to families.

Helping to co-ordinate this year’s appeal were  JCB apprentices: Kitty Hulme, 20, of Newcastle under-Lyme, Lewis Durham, 20, of Derby, Lucy Pepper, 23, of Stoke-on-Trent, and Will Jenkins, 20, of Stone.

Tobermore restructures and creates new jobs for 2026

0

Tobermore, one of the UK & Ireland’s leading construction manufacturers, has restructured its senior leadership team and will be recruiting 10 new members of staff to support its next phase of growth.

Glenn Robinson, formerly Tobermore’s General Manager, has taken the role of Chief Executive Officer and will continue to work alongside owner, David Henderson. David remains Executive Chairman of the board of directors that also includes Daniel Anderson, who serves as a non-executive director of the business. Anna McAleer and Lee Blackburn, formerly Joint Heads of Strategic Growth in the UK and Ireland, have both been promoted to Tobermore’s first Sales Director roles. The company has made eight further internal promotions into leadership positions.

This latest announcement follows the creation of Tobermore’s first board of directors in July 24. It also builds on the company’s £12m investment plans, which saw the creation of 35 new jobs in 2025 and the creation of a new state-of-the-art production facility.

“I’m delighted to be taking on the role of CEO of Tobermore, a company that has enjoyed phenomenal growth in recent years,” said Glenn. “This restructure puts the company in an excellent position; it enables me to retain a great mentor in David who is still very much involved in the wider business. It also allows me to empower Anna and Lee and the rest of our senior leadership team, so they are positioned to drive Tobermore’s continued growth.

“Tobermore’s strength has been to listen to our customers across the supply chain, anticipate market changes and adapt quickly to meet these needs,” said Glenn. “We know that demand for hard landscaping will continue to be driven by private housebuilding and public sector projects. This restructure, together with the creation of the board last year, shows Tobermore has the right people, teams and governance in place to support our customers as they design, build, and supply the materials for their projects.”

As sales directors, Anna and Lee will be responsible for aligning Tobermore’s strategies across both the commercial and consumer sales functions. Both have a proven track record of delivering strong and consistent sales growth, and their wealth of industry expertise will be instrumental in helping Tobermore to continue to develop and expand its market share.

“Our customers are under tremendous pressure to build projects to a high standard, as quickly as possible,” explained Anna. “The restructure has allowed us to align all our sales functions, so that we can provide groundworkers with a seamless experience from concept to completion, while also being able to meet anticipated demand so they can keep building.”

Over the next few months, the company will recruit 10 people to increase sales and specification support for customers. This includes Commercial Account Managers in the South East and Midlands, and Commercial Account Executives in London, Cardiff, Bristol, Kent and Essex. It is also adding four new roles to its retaining wall team to keep pace with demand for specification and design support.

“Tobermore has a strong culture, and we retain that by promoting from within wherever possible, as demonstrated by our restructure,” added Lee. “Glenn worked his way up from Business Improvement Manager to CEO, Anna joined as a graduate in the specification team 11 years ago, and I started as Commercial Sales Manager eight years ago. So, I would say to anyone considering a role with Tobermore, it’s more than just a job; it’s a fantastic and exciting career opportunity.”

As well as the immediate recruitment plans, Anna and Lee will be holding Tobermore’s second Step into Sales event in March to give ambitious people in London the opportunity to find out about careers in sales.

A further recruitment drive will take place later this year to find production staff across all levels for its new 3,000m2 factory, which is scheduled to open in autumn 2026.

Anyone interested in career opportunities at Tobermore can sign up to the Talent Network on the careers page to be notified first about new vacancies and events.

Homebuyer demand rises in November and surveyors expect prices and sales to increase again in 2026 despite market being more price sensitive

0

RICS Residential Market Survey NI – November 2025

Homebuyer demand in Northern Ireland rose through November but the volume of properties coming to the market remains subdued according to the latest Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Residential Market Survey.

A net balance of 26% of NI respondents report that new buyer enquiries rose last month; but whilst this figure indicates a rise in demand, it is at a slower rate than seen the month previous (a net balance of 43%).

Surveyors in NI also report that new instructions to sell rose through November, however this was at a very modest rate. A net balance of 4% of respondents reported that there was rise in supply, up from the -7% that was seen in the survey previous.

With limited supply, it is perhaps unsurprising that sales activity was flat in November. A net balance of 1% of NI surveyors noted a rise in sales indicating that the volume was broadly the same as in October. But surveyors are more optimistic on the sales outlook, with a net balance of 34% expecting a rise in sales over the next three months, and sales are expected to higher in a year’s time too.

When it comes to pricing, again with demand outstripping supply, it is unsurprising that surveyors in NI report that house prices continued to rise. A net balance of 99% of NI respondents in the latest survey reported that house prices rose over the past three months. Looking ahead, a net balance of 73% of surveyors in NI expect that house prices will continue rising over the next three months. Prices are also expected to be higher in a year’s time.

RICS NI Residential Spokesperson, Samuel Dickey, said that whilst demand is robust, buyers are increasingly price sensitive: “2025 has been another quite robust year for the Northern Ireland housing market, with the RICS survey showing ongoing price growth and good demand through the year and into the final quarter. The latest survey for November is little different in this respect with key indicators including prices and buyer demand continuing to point to growth. And my own experience is that buyer interest on the ground remains steady. However, it is clear that the market is price-sensitive, with buyers increasingly conscientious in their bidding. Well-presented homes in established areas continue to attract strong competition.”

Commenting on the UK picture, Simon Rubinsohn, RICS chief economist said: “The housing market has been struggling for momentum for several months, and the recent Budget announcements are unlikely to materially shift that picture. The ending of Budget related uncertainty is welcome, but the fundamental challenges of affordability and elevated borrowing costs will in all probability keep activity subdued in the near term. That said, the twelve-month outlook has brightened somewhat, likely reflecting a growing sense that the Bank of England may have a little more scope to reduce interest rates than seemed plausible only a short while ago.

“Meanwhile in the lettings market, although tenant demand does appear to be softening the lack of stock is keeping rental expectations elevated and the additional tax levied on landlords in the Budget will likely exacerbate this trend.”

Day Glass Recycling Delivers Upgraded Glass Processing Facility in Charlton, Greenwich.

0

Day Glass Recycling has upgraded operations of its high-capacity glass processing facility in Charlton, London, marking a significant step forward for sustainable waste management in the capital.

The facility, located at Day Aggregates’ Greenwich Depot, is now designed to handle up to 100,000 tonnes of glass each year and will process material collected from Materials Recovery Facilities (MRFs) across the capital. Once cleaned and sorted into cullet – recycled glass ready for remanufacturing – the material will be exported by ship directly to European glass producers. By enabling direct export via sea rather than relying on road freight, the facility will contribute to significant carbon emission reductions.

“Reducing road miles not only eases traffic congestion but also cuts CO2 emissions, aligning with both local and national climate action goals,” Myles Willingale said. “This investment in Charlton represents our commitment to sustainable solutions and a more circular economy.”

Located on the Thames, the facility offers prime access to maritime transport routes, significantly reducing the need for road haulage. Streamlining the process from recycling to remanufacturing while boosting the efficiency of London’s waste infrastructure.

Now fully operational, the plant has created six new local jobs, with several waste management companies in the capital already signed on to use the facility as part of their low carbon strategy.

For more insight into the glass industry, the pressing need for more responsible recycling solutions, and why exporting glass is the most effective and sustainable option for the South of England visit – Glass Export Report