The first bricks made after a £1.5m investment by York Handmade Brick Company to transform its products tin process are expected to be available in March.
David Armitage, chairman of York Handmade, which celebrates its 35th anniversary this year, said: “Over the years, we have undertaken significant technological improvements, culminating in this £1.5 million overhaul and renewal of our manufacturing process, which will speed up production, facilitate two brand-new products and increase efficiency.
“This is a transformational move, by far the biggest and most significant in our history. Our revolutionary new manufacturing line will combine three different types of brick – the Handmade Style, as currently produced, together with Water Struck and Pressed Bricks.
“Most of the Water Struck Bricks, currently very popular in London, are imported, so we are fulfilling an important demand and supporting the sustainability agenda. We have an impressive track record in London, with iconic projects across the capital, and we can now build on this.
“More generally, this investment will enable us to manufacture high-quality, UK-made bricks for many years to come and it reflects our commitment to the brick industry and the astounding architectural projects using bricks,” explained Mr Armitage.
“It is encouraging to report that brick remains the building material of choice for many architects and specifiers across the UK. We particularly value the contacts we have built up over the years with architects, planners, self-builders and developers. We look forward to continuing those relationships in the years to come and are confident that our new plant will help us immensely in achieving this objective.”
