Staff at Oakenholt paper mill create thriving on-site vegetable allotment
Essity’s Oakenholt paper mill in Flintshire has swapped pulp for potatoes after an employee transformed unused land on site into a thriving vegetable garden.
The initiative, led by machine operator Shaun England, aims to promote sustainability, wellbeing, and community spirit among colleagues.
With backing from the mill’s Works Council, Shaun turned the disused space into an allotment using only upcycled and recycled materials, including redundant paper machine fabrics, wire and felt boxes, and compost from the local recycling centre.
Now in its first season, the garden has already produced potatoes, onions, lettuce, beetroot, radish, and mint. Shaun shares the produce with colleagues and plans to expand the plot next year.
He also created upcycled flower boxes at the mill’s entrance, adding to the sense of pride in the workplace.
Shaun said: “It’s always been a dream of mine to grow my own food, and thanks to Essity and the Works Council, I’ve been able to make it happen. The dry weather made it a challenge, but I’m proud of the results and excited to keep planting and expanding the plot.”
Dawn Harris, Quality and Environment Manager for Oakenholt, Skelmersdale and Stubbins mills, said: “This is a fantastic example of how creative ideas can transform the way we use our space. By reusing materials and encouraging outdoor activity, the veg plot is good for the environment, good for wellbeing, and good for team spirit.”
With roots in Flintshire since 1875, the Oakenholt mill employs 62 people and produces paper for both branded and own-label products used by the NHS and major retailers.
Check live fuel prices near you before you set off.
Spotted something? Got a story? Email news (@) deeside.com
NEW: Add Deeside.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our trusted coverage when you search.
Latest News
