BSW Timber announces multi-million Newbridge mill investment

BSW says its investment shows renewed confidence in the Welsh timber market and is the next phase of the company's £4m investment programme for the mill, which started in 2013.

New investment will include a high-speed edging line, a high-tech small log profiling line as well as cross-cut, stacking and handling equipment, complemented by new a multi-leads system.

“The increased investment in our Newbridge mill allows us to plan for the future with a strong focus on market needs and requirements, enabling us in turn to invest with confidence,” said BSW Timber’s chief executive Tony Hackney.

Mr Hackney added that thanks to improved efficiencies gained from increased investment, BSW was now producing more home-grown timber than ever before, leading to increased sustainable usage in expanding UK markets such as timber frame houses and the repairs, maintenance and improvements sector.

“This increased usage is dependent on there being an appropriate level of woodland expansion across Wales to meet the future needs of our industry and our plans for ongoing investment reinforce the importance of the forestry sector to both local and national economies, creating a positive knock-on effect throughout the supply chain,” he said.

The Newbridge mill now employs 149 staff, making it the largest single site sawmill in Wales.