Capper Trading given green light for £15m hub

The approval for the state-of-the-art facilities was granted by Mid Ulster planning committee on Tuesday (3rd March).

The proposals will enhance and expand existing Capper facilities in the Tamnamore area on a separate site, allowing for growth in its transport logistics, animal feed and straw bedding products and services.

Capper has been at the heart of the rural community for over 50 years and currently employs 125 people with a turnover of c.£25m. The company is involved in three primary operations that are intrinsic to Northern Ireland agri-industries, including fuel sales of coal, oil and wood; the production of animal feed and bedding; and expert transport haulage and logistics.

This new development is expected to create 20 sustainable construction jobs during an anticipated 10 year build programme. It is estimated that overall it will contribute £11.3 million GVA to the Northern Ireland economy, most of the benefit being felt locally in Mid Ulster.

Managing Director, Phillip Hill said: “We are delighted by the decision of Mid Ulster planning committee to support the planning officer’s recommendation for approval of our new agri-development hub, which is located on the opposite side of the motorway to our existing premises.

“This a long-term investment at the heart of the agricultural sector in Northern Ireland, which will support innovation and growth of our business and create new jobs in both within the Agri-development and in our supply chain. We look forward now to implementing our plans and continuing our commitment to the wider area of Tamnamore and Dungannon.”

Planning consultants Turley, alongside local architects Studio Fourty Four, helped secure the decision. Sara Tinsley, Associate Director said: “We are delighted to have helped secure this permission. Capper are a major employer, and have been stewards of the lands for more than 50 years.

“It is a strategic location on the motorway network from which Capper can continue to innovate to support local customers, and reach future markets internationally. This approval allows a sustainable approach to their growth, creates new innovate employment opportunities and we welcome the decision made by the planning committee.”

Capper currently supplies transport services to both Moy Park and John Thompson and Sons in Belfast. With continued investment in research and development, Capper has generated new products and services that have spurred the need for the growth of facilities in Tamnamore to meet local and international needs.

Transportation and manufacturing on site currently employs around 120 people with potential for the new Agri-development hub to create a further 40 new jobs once completed.

Capper has invested £3-5 million in research and development in the past 5 years, including £1.8 million from Invest NI.