Perspex International, a landmark company in the UK, has received planning approval for an ambitious new development at its Chapels Park site in Darwen, marking a significant step in the firm’s ongoing investment in the local economy. This approved project includes the establishment of a Polymerisation Hall and an Energy Centre, which promises to be a crucial part of a comprehensive five-year program designed not only to enhance production capabilities but also to make operations more environmentally sustainable. The undertaking represents the first stage in a phased investment strategy aimed at modernizing the company’s operations and solidifying its presence in Darwen—a town with which it has deep roots.
The new facilities will play an integral role in streamlining Perspex’s manufacturing processes, leading to a notable decrease in both water and energy consumption. This shift aligns with the growing emphasis on sustainability in manufacturing, allowing the company to not only operate more efficiently but also to contribute positively to environmental conservation efforts. As part of this initiative, the new production hub is expected to safeguard existing jobs while also creating new employment opportunities over time, fostering both economic growth and job security within the community.
This announcement comes at a pivotal moment for Perspex International, coinciding with the company’s 90th anniversary in Darwen. Established as the sole production site for Perspex throughout the UK, the company is now poised for a transformative phase. The approval for the new production hub stands in stark contrast to the challenges the firm faced in September 2022, when it warned that 74 jobs were at risk due to rising energy costs impacting operations across its two production sites in Darwen and its distribution base in Walker Park, Blackburn. The shift from these uncertain times to a new phase of investment demonstrates the company’s resilience and forward-looking approach.
Bryan Welch, the operations director at Perspex International, expressed enthusiasm upon receiving the green light for development, stating, “It’s fantastic to be starting the New Year with news that plans for our investment at Chapels Park have been passed.” Welch reflected on the company’s long-standing history in Darwen, a legacy that they are eager to build upon. Notably, the firm’s origins in the town trace back to World War II when the decision was made to establish production in Darwen, seen as a refuge where safety could be assured for vital operations—most famously, manufacturing canopies for the iconic Spitfire aircraft.
Perspex® acrylic has stood as a top-tier brand in the plastic industry since its inception in the 1930s. With its production base firmly anchored in Darwen, the company’s new investment serves as a testament to its commitment to the local area. This commitment is fueled by a desire to modernize operations, facilitating a greener manufacturing process that reduces carbon emissions and conserves precious resources—an objective that resonates robustly in today’s eco-conscious world. Welch elucidated, “This major new investment demonstrates our commitment to the town. It will allow us to modernise and streamline the way we work and allow us to become much greener—reducing CO2 emissions and water consumption, something we are passionate about. This is just the start of a major investment programme for Perspex International over the next five years, securing the future of the business in Darwen.”
The planning application for the expansive 1,150 square metre extension to the facility was submitted in August, paving the way for the centralization of operations which have gradually shifted to the Chapels Park site. As they consolidate production capabilities, the firm has begun to market Orchard Mill on the A666 for redevelopment, indicating a strategic approach aimed at optimizing manufacturing efficiency. This development is part of a broader vision supported by the £100 million Darwen Town Deal, designed to invigorate the local economy by enhancing infrastructure and supporting key industries.
Cllr Phil Riley, the leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council and deputy chair of the town deal board, emphasized the historical significance of Perspex International as a major employer in the community, stating, “Perspex International has strong historical ties to the town, being a major employer here for decades. The town deal board was keen to support the planned new investment to help safeguard jobs and create new opportunities, including making production greener. It’s fantastic to start 2025 with the news these plans have been passed.” His comments underscore the importance of manufacturing to the identity and economy of Darwen and highlight the collaborative efforts of local authorities to foster a business environment conducive to growth and innovation.
The Town Deal initiative has already seen success in bringing forward several projects aimed at bolstering Darwen’s status as a manufacturing hub. In addition to Perspex International’s new headquarters, talks are underway regarding the establishment of a pioneering manufacturing and research center in the vicinity, which will serve as a beacon for technological advancement and innovation. Among the prospective tenants is Sheffield University’s Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC), which aims to anchor its first-of-its-kind Additive Manufacturing Accelerator in the area, enhancing the region’s reputation as a center for cutting-edge industry practices.
The journey of Perspex International, previously known as Lucite International until its acquisition in 2019 by 3A Composites, an independent division of Swiss-based Schweiter Technologies AG, has been marked by resilience and adaptability. The recent planning approval not only solidifies the company’s operational future but also reflects the positive trajectory of Darwen’s manufacturing landscape. As Perspex International embarks on this next chapter, the implications extend far beyond the company itself; they herald a renewed confidence in the town’s industrial capabilities and its attractiveness as a destination for investment.
In contemplating the developments at Perspex International, it becomes clear that the implications for Darwen are multifaceted. The investment not only promises to secure existing jobs but also to create new roles as the company expands its operations and modernizes its facilities. This is essential in a time when many areas are grappling with dwindling job prospects and economic uncertainty. The collaboration with local councils and the town deal board serves as a vital reminder of the importance of strategic planning and community support in fostering an environment conducive to business growth.
Moreover, the commitment to sustainability within Perspex’s new operations speaks to a larger, global shift toward responsible manufacturing practices. In an age where consumers are more conscious of environmental impacts than ever before, businesses that prioritize greener operations will likely find themselves ahead of the curve. This modern approach not only appeals to environmentally aware consumers but also aligns with national and international regulations aimed at reducing carbon footprints across various industries, further positioning Perspex International as a leader in responsible manufacturing.
The ripple effects of this investment are likely to extend beyond immediate job creation and greener production; they may also stimulate ancillary economic activities within Darwen. As more jobs are created, local businesses—such as retailers, service providers, and even hospitality sectors—could see an uptick in demand, contributing to a revitalized local economy. The draw of a robust employment base may also encourage new residents to move to Darwen, fostering community growth and engagement.
Furthermore, the connection between educational institutions and local industry is becoming increasingly crucial. With the potential collaboration between the AMRC and local industry, there exists an opportunity to cultivate a skilled workforce equipped to meet the demands of modern manufacturing. If successful, this initiative can create pathways for education and training that align closely with the skills needed by businesses like Perspex International, thereby supporting both student outcomes and employer needs. The synergy between manufacturing and education has the power to elevate the community’s profile and enhance economic resilience.
As Perspex International moves forward, the firm’s leaders, employees, and the local community can look forward to a revitalized future that reflects the rich history of Darwen while boldly addressing the needs of a rapidly transforming world. This project stands not only as a testament to the robust relationship between companies and their communities, but as a beacon of hope and progress for an entire county, setting a standard for what can be achieved through collaboration, investment, and a shared vision for a greener, more sustainable future.