£100m expansion of WEPA Bridgend Paper Mills in UK approved

More than 70 skilled jobs are set to be created in Bridgend County Borough after the council’s Development Control committee voted unanimously in favour of approving ambitious plans for a £100m expansion at WEPA Bridgend Paper Mills in UK.

Located near Maesteg and just off the A4063 at Llangynwyd, the plans for the site were submitted by WEPA UK and will help safeguard 267 existing jobs while creating approximately 100 more during the new construction phase.

As part of the approval process, the company has also agreed to make an £80,000 contribution towards new traffic calming measures on the A4063 at Coytrahen as well as a planned active travel route for the Llynfi Valley. The expansion of the 25 hectare site will involve the construction of a second hygiene tissue paper production line along with new pulp storage and bale handling areas, a high-bay warehouse for up to 35,000 pallets, a shipping area and more. It will enable the company to expand its business and produce up to 115,000 tonnes a year while providing the area with fresh employment and investment.

Cllr Richard Young, Cabinet Member for Communities, said: “With the coronavirus pandemic still in effect, this news could not have come at a better time. Not only does the expansion secure almost 270 jobs, it is generating 74 new roles as well as creating around 100 more for the construction of the new facilities at the site. Bridgend Paper Mills is one of the county borough’s oldest and longest-standing employers, and this significant investment indicates that relationship is destined to continue for many years to come.”

WEPA UK is the UK subsidiary of WEPA Group, the third largest supplier of toilet paper, napkins and kitchen rolls in Europe.