CAMBRIDGE-headquartered Hemspan is to establish a new manufacturing facility in the Scottish Borders in a move set to create up to 100 jobs.
South of Scottish Enterprise (SOSE) has backed the project to create the new bio-based manufacturing facility as part of a wider £4 million funding round for Hemspan.
The agreement will allow Hemspan to expand its BIOHAUS natural-fibre building system to the region, locating manufacturing closer to the agricultural materials and skills on which it depends.
Made using renewable materials including industrial hemp and timber, the whole house panel system can be assembled to create a range of energy-efficient, low-carbon homes, as well as public and commercial buildings.
SOSE said the new facility is expected to support 100 jobs over the next three years and create new opportunities across the region’s supply chain – from growing and processing to manufacturing and construction.
Rather than simply establishing a new manufacturing facility, Hemspan’s ambition is to develop an interconnected regional supply chain. This supply chain would aim to link local agriculture and natural-fibre production with advanced manufacturing and sustainable construction, SOSE explained.
Russel Griggs, chair of SOSE, said, “Hemspan is the perfect example of the type of business SOSE wants to attract to our region, which is Scotland’s Natural Capital Innovation Zone.
“Our support will enable Hemspan to invest in Scottish manufacturing, provide opportunities for local farmers to grow industrial hemp, and create up to 100 jobs in the Scottish Borders.
“There is increasing demand for lower carbon, energy-efficient construction, which Hemspan has the ability to help deliver, and transform the housebuilding sector.”
Matthew Belcher, CEO of Hemspan, added, “This is a pivotal moment not only for Hemspan, but for the future of manufacturing in the Scottish Borders and the wider UK construction industry.
“We are not simply co-locating and establishing a manufacturing facility. We are building an interconnected supply chain that links farmers, natural fibre production, advanced manufacturing and the delivery of better-performing, lower-carbon buildings.
“Project Borders represents a long-term commitment to the region. It is about creating economic value locally, supporting farmers, providing jobs and helping transform the way we build homes and places for future generations.
“The support from South of Scotland Enterprise recognises the potential of this opportunity to establish the Scottish Borders as a leader in the emerging bio-based economy and demonstrate how regional investment can deliver meaningful climate and economic impact.
“By bringing together agriculture, innovation and construction, we can create a circular model where materials are grown, manufactured and used closer to where they are needed, reducing emissions while creating lasting economic resilience.”
