Archive Council News

This page is a news release published by Wrexham County Borough Council.
Content Author: pressoffice@wrexham.gov.uk

30 July 2010

Council welcomes £30m Sharp investment

Wrexham County Borough Council has welcomed the news that the Sharp Corporation has announced a £30 million investment in their Llay based manufacturing plant.

The investment will have the potential to create hundreds of new jobs, double production of solar cell modules at the factory at Llay and demonstrates confidence in Wrexham as a key business location.

Sharp Solar UK began making cells at the plant in 2004 and will add three new production lines to the existing four.

The money will also be used to create a training academy, teaching staff how to make the solar panels.

Wrexham County Borough Council has worked closely with Sharp for many years supporting and encouraging new investment. Over the past twelve months the Council has held discussions about further assistance to aid the company's development in the future.

Cllr Aled Roberts, Leader of Wrexham Council said: “This massive investment demonstrates huge confidence in Wrexham as a key business location and also how powerful partnership working can be. The Council has worked closely with Sharp and colleagues in the Welsh Assembly and UK governments to help make this investment a reality. We will now concentrate our efforts on the infrastructure requirements for the site, including the power and water treatment elements of the scheme.

“Whilst this is fantastic news and a huge boost to the economy in North East Wales it is also a massive boost to the community of Llay. This move by Sharp represents a huge vote of confidence in the quality of work produced at the Llay plant by a very dedicated workforce.”

In a joint statement, Llay councillors Malcolm Williams and Peter Davies welcomed the news and hoped the significant investment will lead to new job opportunities for local people.

NOTE TO EDITORS: For further information contact Gareth C Jones on 01978 292254 or email pressoffice@wrexham.gov.uk

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