2 minute read - 4th March 2025
Rockwool looks to build new UK production facility
Global non-combustible insulation manufacturer Rockwool has submitted a Section 73 application to Birmingham City Council as its next step towards creating a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the West Midlands. A Section 73 application is a request to change or remove conditions attached to existing planning permission. The facility would boost supply capacity for UK and Republic of Ireland customers, whilst also supporting Rockwool’s global sustainability plans.
Rockwool, which has operated from South Wales since 1979, has strong foundations in the UK and intends to build a second plant at its site near Minworth, northeast of Birmingham.
Following the purchase of land in November 2024, the site already has outline planning permission for manufacturing in general. This Section 73 application requests permission to vary some of the details in the current permissions to suit Rockwool’s specific proposal. If given the go-ahead to adapt the permissions, Rockwool plans to submit a more detailed Reserved Matters application by early 2026.
Insulation manufacturer Rockwool has submitted a Section 73 application to Birmingham City Council as its next step towards creating a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in the West Midlands / Picture: Rockwool
Never miss the latest manufacturing news by signing up to our newsletter here
If both applications are approved, construction could begin in 2026, and the facility could become operational in 2029. Since plans for the new facility were announced in November 2024, Rockwool has carried out the first phase of a community engagement programme to share initial information and listen to feedback.
Nick Wilson, managing director of Rockwool UK & Ireland, said: “Since we announced our intentions to expand the business into the West Midlands, we have had an opportunity to share our plans with the community and are very grateful to those who have provided feedback. We are taking all feedback into consideration as we develop the plans and have included the community’s observations so far in our Section 73 application to the Council. We look forward to meeting with community members again in the coming months.”
