Tegral to spend €75m on production facility in Athy

KILDARE-based building products firm Tegral is investing €75 million in a new production facility in Athy.

The new plant will be located on a 38-acre, greenfield site close to the town centre.

Tegral’s managing director, David Graham said: “The new development will bring the most up-to-date technology into world-class production facilities, ensuring the highest standards of production and the delivery of quality products to our customers.

“This project will also considerably enhance the working conditions for our employees and the environment in which Tegral operates.”

Notice of the company’s application for planning permission will be published soon and subject to the planning process, work is expected to begin next year and completed in 2009.

As part of the planning application, a full environmental impact study (EIS) will be carried out in consultation with Kildare County Council and all relevant State agencies including the Environmental Protection Agency, the Department of the Environment and Waterways Ireland, said the company.

Tegral also said that the move into the manufacturing of composite panels is a natural progression and will further strengthen the position of the company as a supplier to the Irish roofing and cladding market.

Tegral’s current 45-acre site is located on the banks of the Grand Canal.

Following relocation, it is envisaged that options for the best future use of the site will be explored with the local authorities, they said.

Tegral produces slate and metal building products and has been in Athy for 70 years.

It is the largest employer in south county Kildare employing 369 people and it contributes over €20m annually direct to the local economy.

Tegral is a member of the Etex Group, which is a Belgian industrial group specialising in the production and marketing of high-quality building materials and systems.

The group was founded 100 years ago and consists of more than 80 affiliated companies in 39 countries.