A MAJOR manufacturer of aluminium products is to relocate its UK headquarters to Chepstow.

AluK (GB), a leading designer and engineer of aluminium building systems, announced on Monday (3rd October) that it has acquired a major site on Newhouse Farm industrial estate.

The 32,199 square metre factory unit at Newhouse Farm housed the former Mabey Bridge Ltd wind turbine site, and will be redeveloped into a state-of-the-art manufacturing site.

AluK have outgrown their current operation site in Newport, and it is hoped the move to Chepstow will allow for an increase in business and workforce over the forthcoming years.

The multi-million pound investment will renovate the existing factory with a three story extension to the office building, the addition of a show room, and reconfiguration and renovation of the factory unit and car park.

Planning for the development of the site was approved last month, with both Mathern Community Council and Chepstow Town Council recommending the plans be approved.

AluK’s managing director Russell Yates said: “Our decision to come to this larger site in Chepstow is essential so we can keep growing.

“Over the past three years we have outgrown our facilities in Newport and the Newhouse site means we can now invest in new state-of-the-art manufacturing plant and create more jobs. We’re currently in multiple sites in Newport so it will be ideal to be under one roof.

“We have offered everyone in Newport the chance to come to Newhouse and we will be creating new jobs as well, so it’s an exciting opportunity for us and the area.”

Mr Yates continued: “With our expansion plans we will be bringing skilled work and industry back to Chepstow, and ideally we want to be fully operational by July 2017.

“We will also be working closely with the Monmouthshire County Council (MCC) and the Enterprise Directorate to help deliver further growth to the area.”

The new facility will increase assembly and production capacity, support innovations in product designs and technology, deliver essential training, showcase products and provide much-needed warehousing and office space.

The interior of the existing building will also be reconfigured, while a new façade of glazing and dark metal will be cladded to the front of the building.

Vehicular access into the site will also be reconfigured, and there will be new soft landscaping around the car park area to the south and southwest of the site.

Paul Matthews, Chief Executive of MCC, said: “I am delighted to welcome AluK to the county.

“I’m impressed by the company’s vision and values, and welcome their decision to not only invest in this region, but also to continue to grow their business.

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“It is a real coup for us and I look forward to a strong relationship.”