The project will include a four-part operation for the production of glass containers: melting and forming; the handling of raw materials; inspection and packaging and warehousing
The plant is expected to commence glass production in 2026. (Credit: Ciner Glass Ltd.)
CiNER Glass UK has secured planning approval from Blaenau Gwent County Borough Council to construct a new £390m glass container manufacturing facility in Wales, UK.
Located on a 21.5ha vacant plot at the Rassau Industrial Estate, north of Ebbw Vale, the project will create around 600 highly skilled jobs.
The company secured approval to build and operate a purpose-built glass Production plant and associated development at Rassau Industrial Estate.
The initial part of the facility, dubbed Dragon Glass, is expected to commence operations in late 2024.
The project will include a four-part operation for the production of glass containers: melting and forming; the handling of raw materials; inspection and packaging and warehousing.
CiNER Glass aims to supply glass bottles to UK food and beverage producers, with an aim to build a centre of engineering excellence in glass technology in Wales.
CiNER Glass executive board member Didem Ciner said: “We are extremely pleased to have received approval to move forward with our exciting plans to build and operate our new glass bottle manufacturing facility in Ebbw Vale.
“This is the first step towards building a world-class facility in the heart of South Wales and we cannot wait to begin working on making our vision for Blaenau Gwent a reality.”
Construction of the multi-phase project will begin after the detailed design of the project. The plant is expected to commence glass production in 2026.
The company said that the project will help create between 400 and 500 construction jobs and 1,200 indirect jobs in the supply chain.
Councillor John Morgan, Blaenau Gwent Council’s executive member for Place & Regeneration said: “CiNER’s business strategy is to be the world’s largest glass producer using the latest and best technology; and to do so with a model that is environmentally friendly, sustainable, and values people.
“This will create significant employment opportunities within an economically challenged region as we work to tackle economic deprivation and create further economic opportunities for our communities.
“CiNER is committed to engaging with a range of local partners including colleges, the local authority and job centre plus/Careers Wales to develop opportunities around apprenticeships and work placements including during construction.”