News

Ardagh Metal Packaging granted planning permission for $200 million beverage can plant in Northern Ireland

Acting on behalf of Ardagh Metal Packaging (AMP), Turley has helped to secure approval from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council for plans to build a new state-of-the-art $200 million (£150 million) beverage can plant.

We provided expert Planning, Strategic Communications and Economics services on the project which was granted approval at August’s planning committee. The proposals will see the development of the new plant at Global Point, Newtownabbey near Belfast. The manufacturing facility, which was one of the fastest planning applications processed by Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council this year, will have a footprint of 40,000 sq m and is expected to create approximately 160 direct jobs (FTE) on site, alongside a further 30 jobs indirectly through associated suppliers and associated businesses. 

David Spratt, CEO of AMP Europe, commented: 

“We are delighted to be granted planning permission to deliver a new innovative manufacturing facility in Newtownabbey and progress closer to the creation of nearly 200 new jobs for the local employment market whilst also supporting circular economy growth.  We appreciate the excellent support from the Council and the constructive engagement with the local community.”

The planning application for the new manufacturing plant was submitted in April 2022 and was commended by the Council’s Planning Committee. The highly sustainable facility will support AMP’s manufacturing ambitions by supplementing their existing production base throughout Europe. 

The site which aims to be operational by 2023 will manufacture metal beverage cans and contribute strongly to the circular economy, through their leading recycling collection rates and significant use of recycled content, helping to meet the sustainability requirements of AMP customers and consumers. 

The new facility will be located in close proximity to AMP customers, including Diageo and Coca-Cola (Hellenic). 

The  wider project team included Todd Architects, Doran Consulting, Williams & Shaw, Skope Projects and RPS. 

Director and Head of Planning, Belfast at Turley, Angela Wiggam added: 

“We are delighted to have worked in very close co-operation with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council, its planning authority, and the wider project team to secure this planning permission for Ardagh Metal Packaging in a very short timeframe. The new manufacturing and distribution facility at Global Point will deliver good growth and jobs for the community in Newtownabbey and north Belfast and contribute more broadly to the economy of Northern Ireland.”

16 August 2022