Liverpool, UK – 22 April 2024 – Today marks a significant milestone in the region’s manufacturing landscape as Mayor Steve Rotheram officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art press machine at Hemsec’s new £4 million Structural Insulated Panel (SIP) Manufacturing Hub, located in the heart of Knowsley, Liverpool.
The unveiling ceremony, attended by key stakeholders and industry leaders, showcased Hemsec’s ambitious vision and cutting-edge capabilities of the press machine, which stands as the only one of its kind in the world. This groundbreaking technology is positioned to drive crucial innovation in the construction sector and a fabric-first approach to achieving a net zero built environment, particularly in the area of social and affordable housing.
With a manufacturing capacity unlike any other, the new manufacturing hub and press promise unparalleled efficiency and precision in the production of SIPs, a building material known for its superior energy efficiency, speed of build and long-term sustainable impact. This advancement comes at a crucial time as the UK faces a significant shortfall in social housing, with communities across the country in dire need of affordable and high-quality accommodation.
Liverpool City Region Mayor Steve Rotheram emphasised the importance of this new manufacturing hub and its potential to address the housing crisis and other key issues important to the region’s communities.
Managing Director at Hemsec, Stephen Painter commented:
“The opening of Hemsec’s SIPs Manufacturing Hub represents a transformative moment for Liverpool and the British manufacturing industry. With the capabilities of this pioneering press machine, we have an unprecedented opportunity to accelerate the construction of much-needed truly affordable social housing, providing safe and sustainable homes for our communities.
A fabric-first approach to sustainable buildings is crucial for ensuring the performance of our homes is optimised now and remains for the lifetime of the building, securing longevity in energy efficiency.”
The establishment of the SIPs Manufacturing Hub not only signifies a major investment in Liverpool’s economic growth but also affirms Hemsec’s commitment to innovation and sustainability in the construction industry. By harnessing cutting-edge technology and fostering collaboration between public and private sectors, Liverpool is poised to lead the way in addressing the urgent challenges facing the housing sector through collaboration and innovative application of MMC.
As a world leading production facility, the £4 million manufacturing hub and press machine stands as a testament to Hemsec’s dedication to driving positive change and building a brighter future for all residents in the North West and beyond.
About Hemsec
Hemsec is a leading UK-based insulated panel manufacturer. Since 1928, we have been one of the largest and longest-standing insulated panel manufacturers in the UK. Hemsec is committed to reshaping the built environment, together, for a better tomorrow.
Hemsec works closely with companies across the supply chain, providing high-quality timber and metal-faced insulated panels to construct energy-efficient industrial, commercial, leisure, and residential buildings. Our priority is to take responsibility for the environment today and safeguard it for future generations.
Hemsec SIPs (Structural Insulated Panels) are central to the development of many Modern Methods of Construction (MMC) and enable the construction of more energy-efficient buildings that align with Future Homes Standards.
Hemsec SIPs are extensively tested for Structural, Acoustic, and Thermal performance, including Fire Resistance, and are BBA-certified to give our customers confidence in our superior quality standards. By combining structural and insulating properties, Hemsec SIPs can be used alongside a wide range of construction materials as load or non-load-bearing structures. This improves energy performance and reduces wall thicknesses, which helps to maximise internal space and minimise energy bills.
For additional information, please visit www.hemsec.com