Spanish packaging giant Saica has secured planning permission to construct a massive new manufacturing facility in Newry.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s planning committee signed of on the bid by the Zaragoza-based company’s UK subsidiary Saica Pack on July 10.
The project, which is expected to involve an investment in the tens of millions, would involve the group relocating from its current operation at Warrenpoint Harbour to the expanded Invest NI business park, next to Grant Fit Out’s headquarters and Modern Tyre’s new £5.5 million manufacturing facility.
Saica Group employs around 10,000 people across its European operations, which manufactures recycled paper for corrugated board.
The group currently operate from five sites on the island of Ireland, including Lurgan and Enniskillen.
In a report submitted the council as part of Saica’s application, the group’s planning agents said the packaging company had reached capacity at Warrenpoint Harbour, adding that the factory is in need of continual refurbishment due to deterioration.
“The capital costs of ongoing repairs are not financially sustainable hence the company plans to relocate,” said the report.
“There are no available lands in Warrenpoint that could accommodate the applicant hence the decision to relocate to Invest NI land in Newry.
“With a workforce in the region of 160, it is important that the company be afforded an opportunity to re-establish itself at an alternative location in the district, to guarantee its sustenance and facilitate its future growth.”
