Rising from the Ashes: The New Nantycaws Resource Recycling Facility (RRF)

In 2021, CWM Environmental faced a significant challenge when a devastating fire engulfed our Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) at Nantycaws. The fire, caused by a discarded lithium-ion battery, completely destroyed the facility, marking a critical turning point for our company. However, from this unfortunate event emerged an opportunity to rebuild and innovate.

We are excited to announce the start of development on the new Nantycaws Resource Recycling Facility (RRF), a state-of-the-art complex designed to handle all of Carmarthenshire’s household recycling. This new facility not only replaces the old MRF but also represents a significant upgrade, both in terms of technology and capacity.

A Facility Built for the Future

The new Nantycaws RRF is designed to process up to 80,000 tons of recyclable materials across Carmarthenshire and South West Wales. With around 20,000 tonnes coming from co – mingled DMR (Dry Mixed Recycling) from households across Carmarthenshire, the rest will be from the commercial sector and collected as seperated streams at the curbside. Unlike the old MRF, the RRF will be designed to handle both a comingled stream from households and segregated streams from businesses to provide a valuable service to the local community after the introduction of Workplace Recycling Laws in April 2024. The RRF is designed to segregate polymers and fiber material if required, which will enhance the service even further.

Improved Infrastructure for Greater Efficiency

In addition to the technological upgrades, the Nantycaws RRF will feature a completely redesigned road layout and an automated weighbridge. These infrastructure improvements are designed to streamline the process of receiving and sorting materials, reducing waiting times and increasing overall efficiency. The new road access will make it easier for collection vehicles to deliver recyclables, ensuring that materials are processed quickly and effectively.

Job Creation and Economic Impact

One of the new facility’s most exciting aspects is its potential to create skilled jobs in the region. Construction of the RRF is currently in Phase 1, with Jones Brothers Henllan Ltd leading the development of the shed and road layout. Once the facility is operational, it will offer long-term employment opportunities, boosting the local economy.

These jobs will not only contribute to the economic well-being of the region but will also offer career opportunities in the growing field of environmental management. As CWM Environmental continues to expand, we are committed to investing in our workforce, ensuring that our employees have the skills and training they need to succeed.

Environmental Goals and Community Engagement

The Nantycaws RRF is more than just a recycling facility; it is a cornerstone of our broader environmental goals. By maximising recycling rates and continuing our zero landfill use policy, we aim to position ourselves as a leader in waste management in Wales. The facility, alongside our Reuse Village, will play a critical role in promoting a circular economy where materials are kept in use for as long as possible.

Community engagement will also be a key focus once the facility is operational. We plan to provide detailed insights into how the RRF operates through regular updates on our social media channels, including Facebook, Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok, and LinkedIn. These updates will not only keep the public informed but also inspire and educate the local community on the importance of recycling and waste reduction.

Additionally, we will continue to welcome local schools and businesses to site tours, offering them a firsthand look at the cutting-edge technologies and processes at work in the facility. These tours will be an integral part of our educational outreach, helping to foster a culture of sustainability within the community.

A Timeline for the Future

The development of the Nantycaws RRF is projected to be completed by spring 2025, a timeline that reflects our commitment to delivering this critical infrastructure as quickly and efficiently as possible. Throughout the construction process, we will continue to share progress updates, ensuring that our stakeholders are kept informed every step of the way.

As we move forward with this project, we are excited about the possibilities it offers – not just for CWM Environmental but for the entire region.

Stay tuned to our social media channels for regular updates on the progress of the facility, and join us as we work together to make Carmarthenshire a leader in recycling and resource management in Wales.

Your Questions Answered

How long will the build take?

The Nantycaws Resource Recycling Facility (RRF) is expected to be completed by the spring of 2025. This timeline reflects our commitment to delivering a state-of-the-art recycling facility that will serve the community for years to come.

Who is building the Resource Recycling Facility in Nantycaws?

Jones Brothers Henllan Ltd, a respected construction company, was awarded the contract for the build after a comprehensive tendering process. They are leading the development of the new facility, including the construction of the shed and road layout.

Why is a new facility being built in Nantycaws?

The new facility replaces the Materials Recycling Facility (MRF) that was tragically destroyed by a fire in 2021. The fire was caused by a lithium-ion battery that was incorrectly placed in a resident’s blue recycling bag, highlighting the need for advanced sorting technologies and better public awareness.

The Nantycaws RRF will create new skilled jobs, boosting the local economy. It will also play a crucial role in environmental sustainability by maximising recycling rates. Community engagement through site tours and social media updates will help educate and inspire local residents.

What technologies will be used at the Nantycaws RRF?

The facility will feature cutting-edge technologies such as robotics, eddy current separators, ballistic operators, Near-Infrared (NIR) detection, and artificial intelligence (AI) for data collection and quality monitoring. These innovations will ensure efficient sorting and higher-quality recycled materials.

What environmental impact will the Nantycaws RRF have?

The facility is designed to significantly increase recycling efficiency. By utilising advanced sorting technologies and promoting a circular economy, the RRF aims to make Carmarthenshire a leader in sustainable resource management in Wales.

Who is building the plant?

The decision regarding the tender of the RRF plant will be made soon. Once awarded, they will install the state-of-the-art equipment at the end of phase 1.

Watch the development every step of the way and follow our socials #cwmenvironmental