Heidelberg Materials Expands Recycling Operations in Manchester

Expansion of Agecroft Recycling Site

Heidelberg Materials has made a substantial investment in its Agecroft recycling site located in Swinton, Manchester. This expansion is part of the company's commitment to enhancing recycling capabilities and sustainability in the construction industry. The facility now boasts the UK's largest wash plant, which is capable of processing up to 450,000 tonnes of excavated waste annually.

Key Features of the New Wash Plant

The newly installed wash plant is designed to produce high-quality recycled aggregates from construction, demolition, and excavation waste. Key features include:

• Capacity: Processes up to 450,000 tonnes of waste each year.
• Water Recovery: Equipped with a near-closed-loop drainage and water recovery system that recirculates almost 100% of the water used in the process.
• Environmental Impact: The expansion aims to significantly reduce carbon emissions associated with transporting materials, thanks to the new rail link.

New Rail Link and Environmental Benefits

To further enhance operational efficiency, Heidelberg Materials has constructed a rail siding at the Agecroft site. This new rail link connects the facility to Horton quarry located in the Yorkshire Dales National Park. By utilising rail transport for deliveries, the company aims to reduce the number of heavy goods vehicle (HGV) movements, thereby lowering CO₂ emissions and minimising the environmental impact of its operations.

Future Plans and Developments

Heidelberg Materials UK is not stopping here. The company plans to replicate the successful wash plant concept at the B&A Group site in Bristol by 2025. Additionally, there are plans to reopen the Westdown limestone quarry near Frome, which holds an estimated 160 million tonnes of limestone. This move is expected to further bolster Heidelberg's supply chain and enhance its recycling capabilities across the UK.

Site Overview

The Agecroft facility covers an area of 13 acres and is responsible for managing various types of waste, including hazardous, non-hazardous, and inert soils, concrete, and hardcore materials. The site was previously known as A1 Services and was acquired by Hanson UK in 2022, before adopting the Heidelberg Materials name in January 2024. Following the recent expansion, the site plans to increase its output by an additional 280,000 tonnes per year, bringing the total throughput to approximately 750,000 tonnes.

In summary, Heidelberg Materials' expansion of its Agecroft recycling site not only enhances its operational capabilities but also demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility in the construction sector.