Mabey Bridge Renewables, the Chepstow-based manufacturer of steel products, appears to be gearing up for business again. According to reports in Offshore Wind Biz, the Liberty House Group, which is a global organisation boasting manufacturing facilities in Wales and Scotland, has bought the division of Mabey Bridge. We understand that former Mabey Bridge employees are involved in the new management structure.
Mabey Bridge Renewables was a casualty of uncertainty in the wind energy market following changes to the renewable energy support mechanism. It seems that the market for offshore wind is sufficiently buoyant to stimulate additional manufacturing plant, in a potentially positive story for south east Wales.
The closure of Mabey Bridge Renewables as we reported it in 2015
RenewableUK’s Chief Executive, Hugh McNeal, said:
“This is great news and shows how the renewable industry can provide a market for steel produced in Britain. The growth of renewables in the UK is a huge opportunity for British businesses, as high demand for quality steel has increased.”
David Clubb, the Director of RenewableUK Cymru said:
“We’re delighted to see that the manufacturing capacity at Mabey Bridge Renewables, which took many years to build up, may shortly be back in use. The renewable energy industry needs good quality components, and this area of Wales needs good quality jobs. The fit is perfect.”