UK building products manufacturer, Forterra, has revealed plans to boost its brick capacity by creating a new multi-million pound production facility in Leicestershire.

The company is planning a £90m - £95m investment at its Desford site to expand production from 85m bricks to up to 180m bricks per annum.

Forterra said: "The existing plant will remain operational until the new facility built alongside is completed. Subject to planning consent being received, it is anticipated that the new plant will be commissioned in late 2021 and that the capital expenditure will be spent over the period 2019 to 2022.

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"Enabling and preparation costs of £1.5m relating to the project have already been committed and included in the capital budget for the current year. The expenditure will be funded from the free cash flow generated by the business as well as the Group's existing debt facility."

Stephen Harrison, Chief Executive Officer, said: "We have chosen redevelopment of the Desford site as the favoured option of those considered as it enables us to replace the existing plant with a larger modern facility, providing both additional capacity and the benefit of a lower production cost. This will give us the flexibility to continue to serve our customers and meet their requirements as the market grows.

"The project is a key part of our strategy to grow our core business and pursue manufacturing excellence, driven by our strong customer relationships as well as our people. It will enable us to continue delivering sustainable shareholder value."

(LM/MH)