Breedon Group has announced a £1 million upgrade to the mineral plant at its Welsh Slate quarry in Blaenau, Ffestiniog, boosting the production of slate granules and powders used in construction and manufacturing.
Breedon is the only UK producer of slate granules for roofing felt, and this latest upgrade to its Welsh Slate facility includes a new control system, burner, mixer and liquid dosing system to modernise the processing of quarried slate into graded granules and fine powders.
These mineral products are commonly used in roofing, construction and industrial applications, including roofing and damp-course felts, coatings, paints and a wide range of construction materials, with granules produced in specified grades to meet different application requirements.
The investment will enable the plant to increase production volumes while also improving consistency and safety through enhanced monitoring and control. It also allows the more efficient use of raw materials, reducing waste and enabling more of the quarried materials to be turned into usable products ensuring a high-quality and reliable supply for customers.
Barry O'Connor, General Manager – Welsh Slate, Special Aggregates and Circular Economy at Breedon, said: "This investment strengthens our ability to supply slate granules and powders to a specialist market that relies on consistent, high-quality materials.
"As the only UK manufacturer of slate granules for roofing felt, it's important we continue to invest in our operations so we can meet demand and provide a reliable, British-produced supply for our customers."
Welsh Slate products, produced at Ffestiniog, Penrhyn and Cwt-y-Bugail, are used in high-profile projects around the world, and are recognised for their durability, distinctive appearance and long lifespan.
