Mr Jones was able to see the first structural elements of the facility which is expected to be fully commissioned by January 2011. Mr David Green, project manager for the facility and UPM Shotton's General Manager highlighted UPM Shotton's sustainable development plan during the Minister's visit. The investment is an important part of UPM's Biofore strategy which was launched in 2009.
Pictured, left to right are: David Green, Ieuan Wynn Jones and David Ingham.
Mr Jones said: "Green jobs will play a key part in the development of the Welsh economy and modern recycling facilities like this one will be central to this. The Welsh Assembly Government is delighted that we have been able to support this latest investment, which is an important boost for the economy of North East Wales and will deliver long term benefits for the region. This is an example of government action making a difference on the ground and investing in our future.”
Mr David Ingham, General Manager at UPM Shotton said: “The continued support and partnership with the Welsh Assembly Government is extremely valued by UPM. This year we are marketing 25 years of sustainable manufacturing at Shotton. The new facility is an excellent way to start the next chapter for the mill and our employees.”
He added: "Achieving 25 years of successful operations is a significant achievement considering the economic challenges of the past two decades.
The fact we are able to celebrate our silver jubilee is testament to the long-term strategy of UPM, effective investments and the commitment of our employees.
UPM Shotton is recognised as a beacon of sustainable manufacturing by the National Assembly for Wales' Sustainability Committee. The latest investment is a fantastic start to the mill's next chapter."
About UPM Shotton
UPM says: “UPM Shotton is part of the UPM, a global forest products business and Europe’s biggest recycler of newspapers and magazines. It recycles 700,000 tonnes a year – equivalent to 95,000 double decker buses. UPM Shotton is the largest newsprint mill in the UK, producing newsprint for the national and the regional press, with capacity to produce 500,000 tonnes a year.
Following the investment of over £120million to create the world’s biggest single line recovered fibre pulping facility, UPM Shotton now creates newsprint from 100% recovered paper sources.”
