A multi-million pound investment into the UK manufacturing sector is set to create more than 100 jobs in Huntingdon.
IKO plc, a global leader in roofing, waterproofing and insulation products, has begun construction on its new insulation factory at Alconbury Weald.
To mark the occasion the company, which already has four plants across the country, hosted a ‘spade in the ground’ event joined by business leaders, stakeholders and councillors.
Jonathan Djanogly, MP for Huntingdon, together with district councillors Robin Howe and Roger Harrison, and the chair of Stukeleys Parish Council Karl Gasson attended the event.
Andy Williamson, IKO UK group managing director, said: “I’m delighted to mark the start of construction of IKO’s new insulation factory with an event which involves key members of the local community.
“IKO is already employing people from the surrounding area and the plant, once operational, will create an additional 160 jobs. The development of this factory is a great example of UK manufacturing.”
The build represents a £30 million investment into the industry, and once complete the 470,000ft² factory will be the second largest footprint building within the Alconbury Weald Campus.
Construction of the factory is due for completion in September this year and its official opening is planned for March 2018.
Tim Leathes, development director for site owner and developer Urban&Civic, said: “IKO is a great addition to the growing community of Alconbury Weald, and we are pleased this incredible location can provide their first UK insulation manufacturing base.
“We will continue to work with the IKO team to support their commitment to bringing low carbon construction materials into the UK market.”
When fully operational, the factory will produce insulation for around 40,000 homes a year in the UK, and, the company say, it will reduce the environmental impact and cost of importing materials from abroad.
IKO currently has four manufacturing plants in the UK, based in Wigan, Chesterfield, Matlock and Bolton.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here