<?xml version="1.0" encoding="utf-8"?> <rss version="2.0" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"> <channel> <title>News Feed - Plevin</title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news.rss</link> <description>This page provides all the latest news in the world of Plevin.</description> <language>en-gb</language> <pubDate>Mon, 04 May 2015 08:49:42 BST</pubDate> <atom:link href="http://www.plevin.co.uk/news.rss" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <item> <title><![CDATA[Hazlehead biomass processing plant reopens]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/hazlehead-biomass-processing-plant-reopens/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/hazlehead-biomass-processing-plant-reopens/</guid> <description><![CDATA[OurHazlehead, Sheffield site whichturns waste wood into biomass fuel isnow fully open after an eight month programme to make essential improvements. The siteprocesses waste wood into biomass fuel which is then used for energy recovery. The decision was taken to close the site in June last year to make essential improvements to the storage and management of waste wood. Non-recyclable waste wood which is being diverted from landfill, is being both stored and processed at the site into biomass fuel. Working alongside both the Environment Agency (EA) and South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, wehave reduced the volumes of wood stored on site. Existing wood stacks have reduced in height and volume and breaks in-between each have been increased to minimise the risk of incidents. Whilst further improvements are continuing, boththe EA and ourselvesare satisfied that the site is able to reopen to customers and begin to take in additional waste wood. Waste wood typically comes from civic amenity sites and skip, demolition and construction companies. Although in decline, accoring to a Defra report, an estimated 700,000t of waste wood is sent to landfill each year*. Once being considered to have no value, this figure is now declining as more waste wood is being diverted from landfill into energy recovery. After a significant investment in a state of the art processing plant, the site is the sole supplier of biomass fuel for the new E:on renewable energy plant at Tinsley, Sheffield. The energy produced from this plant is expected to generate enough energy to provide power for around 40,000 homes. We will continue to work closely with the Environment Agency on further improvements and would like to thank the Environment Agency, South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue, customers, residents and other stakeholders for their patience and understanding during this time. Ends. *Source DEFRA report into waste wood restrictions in England call for evidence, February 2013 ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Snowflake becomes official bedding supplier to the Winter Championships]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/snowflake-becomes-official-bedding-supplier-to-the-winter-championships/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/snowflake-becomes-official-bedding-supplier-to-the-winter-championships/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Snowflake becomes official bedding supplier to the Blue Chip Winter Show Jumping Championships and the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships. Snowflake, a leading name in premium equestrian bedding, are proud to announce a that they are the official bedding supplier to the Blue Chip Winter Show Jumping Championships and the NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships 2015 2016. The events, which take place at Hartpury Arena Gloucestershire in April attract both amateur and professional riders alike who will be bidding for glory whilst bedding their horses on Snowflake Supreme. The Blue Chip Winter Show Jumping Championships host over 3,000 first rounds of competition from Novice to Grand Prix for both Junior and Senior competitors. Snowflake will be proudly sponsoring the 1.10m Winter Classic competition. The NAF Five Star Winter Dressage Championships hosts over 900 dressage tests as competitors compete to win one of the 28 Championship titles from Preliminary level through to Intermediate I. During both events, horses will be stabled on Snowflake Supreme bedding, the flag ship bale. Manufactured from kiln dried softwood, the wood shavings are thoroughly dust extracted and offer excellent absorbency rates whilst creating a warm, comfortable bed. Lynne White, PR Communications Manager at Plevin, manufacturers of Snowflake Bedding said I am delighted that Snowflake have become the official bedding supplier at such exciting events and would like to wish all competitors the best of luck at the competitions. Snowflake equestrian bedding is available nationwide from all good stockists. To find your nearest stockist click here. ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA['Team Plevin' tackle the Great Manchester Run in Aid of North West Air Ambulance]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/team-plevin-tackle-the-great-manchester-run-in-aid-of-north-west-air-ambulance/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/team-plevin-tackle-the-great-manchester-run-in-aid-of-north-west-air-ambulance/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Ten keen runners from Plevinare digging out their trainers and taking to the streets in aid of North West Air Ambulance. The employeesare taking part in the Great Manchester Run to raise vital funds for the charity. The Great Manchester Run, taking place on Sunday 10 May, is Europes largest 10k race which is expected to see in excess of 40,000 runners taking part. The route, which takes race goers through the heart of Manchester, will see Plevins team of runners complete the course and raise over 1000 for the charity. Andrew Clugston, Transport Manager, Plevin, added, We are proud to be running in aid of the North West Air Ambulance. The speed in which they can reach people in need of treatment is incredible, Since they rely solely on charitable donations to keep them in the air, we have decided to make them our charity of the year. Linda de S, Challenge Events Officer at the North West Air Ambulance Charity, said: Wed like to thank Plevin for choosing us as their nomination charity for the Great Manchester Run this year. The donation will really make a difference as we are totally reliant on funds from the public. We wish good luck to everyone racing for us! If anyone would like to sponsor the Plevin team, donations can be made at www.justgiving.com/Plevin. For more information on the North West Air Ambulance Charity or to donate, please visit www.nwaa.net or contact the office on 0800 587 4570.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Investing in cleaner, greener haulage]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/investing-in-cleaner-greener-haulage/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/investing-in-cleaner-greener-haulage/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Here at Plevin, we have been investing in greener, more environmentally friendly ways of transporting our biomass fuel by road. Ten new trailers have been purchased with an overall capacity of 150cu yards, an increase of 25% on our existing trailers which means that that we can deliver larger loads. This reduces the overall number of journeys that we need to make to deliver our biomass fuel to the customer. And less lorry journeys made means that as a company we are reducing our carbon footprint though a decrease in harmful emissions. As we are all aware, carbon emissions are a significant contributing factor towards global warming. As an additional initiative, we have invested in fuel efficiency driver training for our team of haulage drivers. To support this, all of our vehicles are now fitted with telematics to help us monitor fuel efficiency and driver compliance. ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA['Plevin News' from our Hazlehead site]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-news-from-our-hazlehead-site/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-news-from-our-hazlehead-site/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Our Hazlehead, Sheffield site is the largest wood recycling depot in the UK. Over the last few months, the site has been undergoing a series of developmentsandabespoke wood recycling plant has undergonethe final stages of commissioning. In this first edition, find out how weare minimising the risk of fire and making improvementsto on site drainage which willmitigate anyconcerns with run off water.Our secondfire engine is now on site and fully equipped totackle incidents with additional employeesnow been trained on fire management. Ever wondered how waste wood is manufactured into biomass fuel? Then take a look at a schematic which follows the stages taken to turn the waste wood into a fuel. A bespoke wood recycling plant has been commissioned and built by Vecoplan.With the capacity to process up to 80 tonnes of wood per hour, the plantis the mostquickest and efficient in the country. We are continuously looking at ways to reduce our carbon footprint and have recently purchased new trailers. Thesehave a 25% load capacity on our existing trailers whichnot only reduces the overall number of deliveries of biomass fuel made each day, but reduces fuel consumption. To find out more about what hasbeen happening at the site, click on the link below to the newsletter: Hazlehead Depot - Issue 1]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Snowflake sponsorship renewal for Ben Maher]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/snowflake-sponsorship-renewal-for-ben-maher/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/snowflake-sponsorship-renewal-for-ben-maher/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Plevin, manufacturers of the market leading Snowflake range of equestrian bedding, have extended their sponsorship deal with Ben Maher for another year. The Manchester based wood recycling firm have been sponsoring the Show Jumper for the past eight years. The Hertfordshire-based rider has represented Great Britain at the Olympics on two occasions and is both Olympic team gold and European team gold medallist. Ben is currently ranked World Number 2, and British number two (Show Jumping). The horses on Bens yard are all stabled on Snowflake Softchip. Softchip is manufactured using selected softwood timbers which go through a chipping process before being dust-extracted. An alternative to traditional wood shavings, Softchip offers excellent absorbency rates, is easy to manage and has a pleasant, fresh aroma in the stable. Ben Maher said, Plevin have been one of my first supporters. They have believed in me since the beginning of my career. Their star-product Snowflake Softchip is fantastic. I feel privileged to be working with such a team and for my horses to be on such a quality product. Lynne White, PR and communications manager, Plevin, said, We are delighted to be providing Ben with our Snowflake Softchip bedding for another year. Plevin had seen Ben develop from young rider through to international glory over the years and on behalf of everyone here at Plevin, we would like to wish him every success over the forthcoming year. Snowflake equestrian bedding is available nationwide from all good stockists. To find your nearest stockist visit www.plevinproducts.co.uk or call 0870 750 0805. Ben Maher with Sales Manager Gareth Mason ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Leicestershire event rider signs new sponsorship deal]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/leicestershire-event-rider-signs-new-sponsorship-deal/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/leicestershire-event-rider-signs-new-sponsorship-deal/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Plevin, manufacturers of equestrian bedding, have just signed a twelve month sponsorship deal to support International Event Rider Angus Smales. Angus string of horses will be stabled on the market leading Snowflake Supreme wood shavings bedding. The Leicestershire based rider is no stranger to success having made his way up through the ranks from Pony Club, representing Great Britain on several occasions as a young rider and notching up multiple clear cross country rounds at some of the worlds toughest events, notably Burghley 4*, Bramham and Tattersalls. Like all Snowflake bedding products, Supreme wood shavings are manufactured from softwood timber which are dust extracted to ensure a healthy environment in the stable and maintain peak performance for horses. Wood shavings offer excellent absorbency rates which ensures a fresh, pleasant odour in the stable. Angus Smales said, Im delighted to be partnering with Plevin. When running a stable of competition horses it is essential to find a bedding which is warm, comfortable and absorbent. Plevins Snowflake Supreme has ticked all the boxes and is proving very easy for my team and I to manage. Lynne White, PR and Communications Manager, Plevin, added, We are delighted to be supporting Angus with the Snowflake Supreme bedding. He has had a fantastic start to his eventing career and we wish him every success over the next twelve months. ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Update - Hazlehead site]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-site/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-site/</guid> <description><![CDATA[As previously reported, we are not taking any more wood onto site for the foreseeable future until current tonnages have been reduced considerably. The Biomass Renewable Energy Plant at Blackburn Meadows has now begun to take biomass fuel on a daily basis. As a result, our plant is now going through the testing stages in readiness to begin processing biomass fuel to the required daily tonnages. Once fully operational, our plant has the capacity to process up to 80 tonnes of wood per hour. In conjunction with The Environment Agency, current plans and operating procedures are being redeveloped at the site to improve the management of the wood piles. Once fully operational, the number and size of wood piles on site will be reduced. A minimal volume of processed biomass will be stored on site with the majority being transported directly to the renewable energy plant as soon as it is manufactured. The wood stacks are being monitored at regular intervals to record temperature and hot spots meaning any areas of concern will be dealt with immediately. As you may be aware, we did experience problems with run-off water during the fire which posed a threat to the local environment. Drainage on site has been completely reviewed and we will be making ongoing improvements to the current set up. Run-off water is now being directed towards and contained within our storage lagoons on Whams Road. We are in the process of tankering this material away for disposal and apologise for any odour this activity is causing for road-users and residents in the vicinity of the lagoons. One of the drainage management projects being considered is dredging the lagoons on Whams Road to increase their capacity for water storage going forward.Should this project take place, then there is the possibility of odours being generated during dredging. We will ensure that residents living in the immediate area are forewarned as to when this is due to take place by leaflet drop. We would like to thanks residentsfor theirongoing patience throughout the entire incident and whilst we carry out essential development work to the site.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Update - Hazlehead incident]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-incident/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-incident/</guid> <description><![CDATA[We would like to confirm that the fire which started at our Hazlehead, Sheffield site on Monday 2 June is now out. We will continue to work with both The Enviornment Agency and South Yorkshire Fire Rescue to minimise the risk of such an incident happening again and will be conducting a full investigation into how and why this fire started. We would like to thank The Environment Agency and South Yorkshire Fire Rescue Service for their continued support. We would also like to sincerely apologise to residents for all inconvenience.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Update - Hazlehead incident]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-incident/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-incident/</guid> <description><![CDATA[South Yorkshire Fire Rescue are still on site at our Hazlehead, Sheffield site. The damping down process is continuing and we do expect the situation to be resolved within the next few days. We fully sympathise with the inconvenience this situation has caused to residents. The Environment Agency have been taking samples and monitoring the water in Sledbrook Dyke due to water run-off from our site. To prevent further run-off, water is being pumped from the lagoon on Whams Road. We appreciate that the pumps are noisy and again we apologise for this. We will not be taking anymore wood onto site for the foreseeable future until our current tonnages have been reduced. During this time, Plevin lorries will be present on site but this will be to remove processed biomass fuel to take to the renewable energy plant at Blackburn Meadows, Sheffield. Once this plant becomes fully operational, tonnages levels of biomass fuel at the site will be reduced considerably. We are working closely with The Environment Agency and South Yorkshire Fire Rescue Service to ensure that lessons are learnt from this and the previous incident have been put into practice. Health and Safety is paramount to our company and we will be conducting a full investigation as to how and why this fire started. Please be assured that we are doing our upmost to mitigate the impact of this incident and sincerely apologise for all inconvenience.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Update - Hazlehead incident]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-incident/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-incident/</guid> <description><![CDATA[South Yorkshire Fire Rescue continue with their effortsdamping downa wood pilethat has been on fire since Monday 2 June at our site inCrow Edge, Sheffield. Water is now being taken from an onsite lagoon adjacent to the sitewhich means that a water pipe now runs across Whams Road. The road is fully open but motorists are advised to drive carefully when crossing over the pipe. We apologise for any inconvenience caused.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Update - Hazlehead incident]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-incident/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/update-hazlehead-incident/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Despite continued best efforts, fire has now taken hold of a smouldering wood pile at our Hazlehead, Sheffield site which began on Monday 2 June . The wood pile is isolated and fire breaks between neighbouring wood piles have been increased to lessen the possibility of the fire spreading. A High Volume Pump is currently being used by South Yorkshire Fire Rescue Service to support the damping down process. Water is currently being taken from onsite lagoons but the expectation is that additional supplies will need to be taken from nearby Harden Reservoir. Piping of the water may result in temporary road blocks on Penistone Road, Flint Lane, Law Common Road and Bedding Edge Road. Thedamping down process is expected to carry on for several days. We would like to apologise to residents for any inconvenience caused and thankSouth Yorkshire Fire Rescue and the Environment Agency for their ongoing support. A full investigation into how the fire started will take place once the situation has been resolved.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Incident at Hazelhead site]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/incident-at-hazelhead-site/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/incident-at-hazelhead-site/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Smouldering was discovered in a wood pile during routine checks yesterday (Monday 2 June) at our Hazelhead, Sheffield site. The isolated pile is currently being dampened down by South Yorkshire Fire Rescue which is creating steam and smoke. The Environment Agency have been made aware and we expect the situation to be fully resolved as soon as possible. Health Safety is of greatest importance to us and we would like to assure that we will be workingclosely with both the Environment Agency and South Yorkshire Fire Rescue to readdress preventative measures in order to minimise the risk ofthishappening again. All deliveries of wood to the site have currently been suspended. We sincerely apologise to residents for any inconvenience caused and thank them for their patience. ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Plevins 5m wood recovery plant set to open]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevins-5m-wood-recovery-plant-set-to-open/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevins-5m-wood-recovery-plant-set-to-open/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Plevin is making final adjustments to its 5 million waste wood recovery facility in Hazlehead, South Yorkshire, with full operations at the site expected to start in the coming weeks. Described as the UKs largest waste wood recovery centre, the 50-acre site will process up to 150,000 tonnes of waste wood each year. Plevin's Hazelhead facility is set to open in the coming weeks The site was hit by a fire in April, with fire crews attending after a small amount of smouldering was discovered in a processed wood pile during routine checks. The facility will primarily manufacture biomass as part of its 25-year contract as the sole supplier of fuel for energy giant E.ONs 120 million energy plant near Sheffield. Currently under construction at Blackburn Meadows, E.ONs 180,000 tonnes per year capacity biomass facility is expected to open later this year perhaps as early as this summer. The site first began receiving waste wood 12 months ago, with the biomass production undergoing commissioning in preparation for the E.ON contract, which Plevin described as the most lucrative contract in its history upon signing the deal in 2011. Plevin said it worked with equipment manufacturer Vecoplan AG to develop a bespoke facility capable of processing up to eight tonnes of wood per hour. 'Despite a number of challenges, were pleased to see work progressing at Hazlehead and are delighted that our new facility will be a key part in creating greener, renewable energy from a product that would otherwise have been sent to landfill.' Jamie Plevin, managing director at Plevin In addition, Plevin has invested 500,000 in 10 walking floor trailers with the capacity to hold up to 25% more wood than the existing trailers. This enables staff to make fewer journeys and is expected to save more than 330,000kg of carbon dioxide emissions each year. According to the company, the facility has created 20 jobs with plans for further recruitment in future. Jamie Plevin, managing director of Plevin, said: Despite a number of challenges, were pleased to see work progressing at Hazlehead and are delighted that our new facility will be a key part in creating greener, renewable energy from a product that would otherwise have been sent to landfill.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Work under way to create UKs biggest waste wood recycling centre]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/work-under-way-to-create-uk-s-biggest-waste-wood-recycling-centre/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/work-under-way-to-create-uk-s-biggest-waste-wood-recycling-centre/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Work is progressing on schedule to create the UKs largest waste wood recycling centre. Leading wood recycling firm Plevin is on course with development plans for the new 5 million facility on a 50 acre site in Hazlehead, South Yorkshire. The centre, which will primarily manufacture wood chips for energy giant E.ONs 120m renewable energy plant at Blackburn Meadows near Sheffield, will create 20 jobs and process up to 150,000 tonnes of waste wood a year. The facility is now open for receipt of waste wood material and preparations are underway for the installation of processing equipment. Site preparation work to date has included the demolition of redundant buildings. Installation of processing equipment is due to commence in the new year, and production on site will coincide with the opening of Blackburn Meadows. Jamie Plevin, managing director of Plevin, said: Were pleased to see work progressing on schedule at Hazlehead. We have had a great response to the start of our recruitment drive, and have already hired three new members of staff, two machine drivers and a load inspector, who will prove integral to the sites success. Later in the year, we will start recruiting for further posts at Hazlehead. Further information will be posted on the Plevin website, www.plevin.co.uk. The Hazlehead site will allow the firm, based in Mossley, Greater Manchester, to fulfil its contract as the sole supplier of fuel to the Blackburn Meadows plant. Barnsley Development Agency, a partner in the South Yorkshire Sector Growth Enhancement Programme, which is part-financed by the European Union's 2007-13 European Regional Development Fund, is helping Plevin with recruitment at the new base. The agencys SYSGEP sector growth manager Steve Hawkins said: Were delighted to welcome Plevin to Barnsley. Its quite a coup for the borough to be chosen as a manufacturing base for such a major supplier to the green energy sector and we look forward to continuing to support them as they create valuable jobs in the area. As well as processing biomass fuel, Plevin manufactures a range of market-leading wood-based products, including materials for the panel board industry and animal bedding for livestock, equestrian and small animals.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Plevin announce plans for 5 million waste wood recycling facility]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-announce-plans-for-5-million-waste-wood-recycling-facility/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-announce-plans-for-5-million-waste-wood-recycling-facility/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Leading wood recycling firm Plevin has announced plans to open the UKs largest waste wood recycling centre. The family-run company plan to install a new 5 million facility on a 50 acre site in Hazlehead, South Yorkshire, which will create 20 jobs and process up to 150,000 tonnes of waste wood a year. The new facility will primarily manufacture recycled wood chips for energy giant E.ONs 120m renewable energy plant at Blackburn Meadows near Sheffield, with Plevin the exclusive suppliers of fuel for the biomass-fired facility. Jamie Plevin, managing director of Plevin, said: The Hazlehead facility will be a fantastic development for us, and with the E.ON contract we are making significant strides towards our growth targets. As well as helping us expand our operations by giving us further capacity for new contracts, Hazlehead will also help us to offer increased manufacturing volumes to existing customers. The addition of the Hazlehead facility to our portfolio brings our total waste wood and recycled woodchip manufacturing capacity to 350,000 tonnes per year. The project will allow us to have an open gate policy for contracted suppliers on all grades of waste wood. Once completed, we will be able to offer guaranteed recycling of a large volume of high and low grade waste wood. The development has been timed to coincide with the start of our contract with E.ON, with work due for completion in Spring 2014. As well as manufacturing biomass fuel, Plevin manufactures a range of market-leading wood-based products, including materials for the panel board industry and animal bedding for livestock, equestrian and small animals. The sourcing of the additional 150,000 tonnes of wood waste for the Hazlehead development will be overseen by business development manager Andrew McFadzean, who has recently been recruited by Plevin as part of its ongoing recruitment drive. Andrew has more than 15 years experience within the waste wood recycling industry, having been a founding member of Tracey Timber Recycling before becoming the materials manager at AW Jenkinson Forest Products. His new role will include responsibility for sourcing and procuring waste wood for all Plevin sites, as well as supporting with logistic and processing operations. Andrew said: Im delighted to be here, everything Ive been doing so far in my career has come together in this role. Hazlehead is an excellent site, no other wood recycling company has ever had a facility like it, and on the back of it we have a fabulous contract with E.ON, which is particularly impressive considering there are tough times elsewhere in the sector. It really is an exciting time for everyone here at Plevin.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Plevin secures exclusive deal with top showjumping event]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-secures-exclusive-deal-with-top-showjumping-event/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-secures-exclusive-deal-with-top-showjumping-event/</guid> <description><![CDATA[EQUESTRIAN bedding producer Plevin, which owns the market-leading Snowflake and Woodpecker brands, has again secured naming rights for the UKs biggest showjumping event in an exclusive sponsorship deal. The 2013 Plevin British Showjumping Scope Festival takes place at Staffordshire County Showground from August 25 August 31. As part of the wide-ranging agreement, family-owned Plevin will supply 7,000 bales of its Snowflake Softchip bedding for use at the prestigious event. The dust-extracted product, which provides an alternative to traditional wood shavings, will be the only bedding used in approx. 1,400 temporary stables being built on the showground. Plevins logo will feature on promotional literature, event announcements, tickets, brochures and the events website. The week-long festival hosts many national championship finals, as well as more than 70 riding classes. This is the second year running that Plevin will be supplying its Snowflake Softchip bedding to this event. Colin Smith, Sales Manager at Plevin said I am delighted that we have again been successful in securing the event again, the positive feedback we received after last years event underlined our belief that our Snowflake Softchip bedding is one of the leading alternative bedding products available. Family-owned Plevin, which employs 150 people across five sites, manufactures a range of wood-based products from virgin and waste wood materials and the company collects, processes and distributes 600,000 tonnes of wood a year. Through its Snowflake and Woodpecker brands respectively, the company is sponsoring Team GB Olympic showjumping gold medal winner Ben Maher and Matthew Wright.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Plevin supplies UK's premier small livestock show]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-supplies-uk-s-premier-small-livestock-show/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-supplies-uk-s-premier-small-livestock-show/</guid> <description><![CDATA[LEADING wood recycling firm R Plevin Sons has again agreed to provide bedding for the countrys premier livestock show. The exclusive deal sees Plevin supply 2,000 bales of its small Snowflake Woodshavings for use at this year London Championship Small Livestock Show in October, with more than 30,000 visitors and around 2,500 animals including rabbits, guinea pigs, gerbils and mice expected during the two day crufts-style event in Peterborough. This is the second year running that Plevin will be supplying it Snowflake bedding for the event. Jim Blanchard, show secretary said We are extremely pleased that Plevin has again agreed to supply the Snowflake bedding The bedding is soft and dust-free. Many people commented last year on the high standard of the product and we are sure everyone will be delighted that Plevin are supplying the bedding again Family-owned Plevin which employs 150 people across five sites, manufactures a range of wood-based products from virgin and waste wood materials. The company collects, processes and distributes 600,000 tonnes of wood a year. Customers within the animal bedding sector include major supermarkets and large scale pet wholesalers. As well as Snowflake, Plevins consumer brands include Woodpecker. Snowflake woodshavings are manufactured using selected softwood timbers sourced from responsibly managed forests and the product is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) Colin Smith, Sales Manager at Plevin said We are thrilled that a Plevin animal bedding product is to be used at the show again, and that we continue to have wonderful and positive feedback on our products Animal bedding is an intrinsic part of our business and we are keen to explore further opportunities to develop the Snowflake brand by working in partnership with large shows like this one]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Plevin supplies bedding to top horse shows]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-supplies-bedding-to-top-horse-shows/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-supplies-bedding-to-top-horse-shows/</guid> <description><![CDATA[LEADING wood recycling firm Plevin has strengthened its position as a market leader in horse bedding after securing a deal as the exclusive supplier to several prestigious equestrian competitions. The company behind the Woodpecker and Snowflake brands, will supply to three top international competitions taking place over the next six months. This is the second year running that Plevin will be supplying its Woodpecker bedding to these events. Di Wass, Musketeer Event Management said we are extremely pleased that Plevin has again agreed to supply us with Woodpecker bedding Many of the competitors at last years events commented on the high quality of the product and we are sure everyone will be delighted that Plevin are supplying their Woodpecker bedding again Plevin has already supplied its Woodpecker bedding to the SPC Burnham Market International which was held in March and will also be supplying the Houghton International Horse Trials in May along with Burnham Market Horse Trials in September 2013. Family-owned Plevin, which employs 150 people across five sites, manufactures a range of wood-based products from virgin and waste wood materials. The company collects, processes and distributes 600,000 tonnes of wood a year. Woodpecker bedding is dust extracted and absorbent, providing natural odour control. Other Plevin products include Snowflake Supreme and Snowflake Softchip Colin Smith, Sales Manager at Plevin said Our equestrian bedding products are well established and recognised throughout the industry and we are thrilled that Woodpecker has again been chosen to be used at such prestigious high-profile events. Thorough its Snowflake brand, Plevin sponsors Britains top show jumper and London 2012 Olympic winner Ben Maher.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Dramatic change of fortune for apprentice mechanic]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/dramatic-change-of-fortune-for-apprentice-mechanic/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/dramatic-change-of-fortune-for-apprentice-mechanic/</guid> <description><![CDATA[ Apprentice mechanic Nick Wright thought his hopes of working in a garage were dashed until he applied for a job in an entirely different field with leading UK wood recycling company Plevin. Nick, 22, had achieved a healthy set of relevant college qualifications but couldnt find an apprenticeship place to pursue his dream trade. So instead he applied for a general operative post, which he saw advertised in his home town of Boston, Lincolnshire. It turned out to be with Plevin, and that was when his luck changed. I couldnt believe it, said Nick. I went for the other job so I could at least have some work, but during the interview I mentioned about my real dream of being a mechanic and it emerged that Plevin had just such an apprenticeship place available. They suggested I try for that instead. Nicks enthusiasm and qualifications so impressed the second interview panel that he got the job as apprentice mechanic at the firms Elkesley site in Nottinghamshire. There, he does not just get the chance to work on cars and light vehicles, but also on Plevins HGV fleet, which transports waste wood and finished products all around the country. The family-owned company collects, processes and distributes 600,000 tonnes of waste wood a year. Its a real conversation point in his family because, coincidentally, Nicks dad, Brian, was an HGV driver before retiring. Both he and my mum are really pleased Ive found an apprenticeship post and this ones a real step up for me as its quite specialist and also a great place to work. There is such an experienced team here already, who I can learn so many new skills from, said Nick. Taking on the post meant he had to uproot and move to a different part of the country, but the opportunity was so good Nick had no problem doing just that and his chef girlfriend, Zoe, has also managed to move up to be with him. Nick said: Weve a house in Retford now which is great and Ive no regrets at all about moving, Im enjoying the work so much. Plevin is one of the UKs leading wood processing and recycling companies, and employs 150 people across five sites, including Elkesley. It is also one of the biggest suppliers of animal bedding products in the country, with customers including supermarkets and pet wholesalers. Nick works to a shift pattern that involves some early mornings, but boss Chris Markham said hes always full of enthusiasm no matter what the time of day. Weve been really pleased with the promise Nicks shown so far. He really wants to learn and has a great positive approach, said Chris, 64. Theres a few of us here close to retirement and Nick is just the sort of young apprentice we hope to bring along before we go. He has exactly the right kind of attitude and aptitude for the job. Were proud to have him in our team. Practical apprenticeships are essential for the continuation and progression of hands-on skilled trades liked ours. Plevin recognises this and Nicks recruitment is testimony to that. Im delighted we continue to offer places, and a route to a fulfilling career, to talented youngsters like him. Nick was already off to a good start, before joining Plevin, having gained his NVQ 1, 2 and 3 level qualifications in motor vehicles at Boston College. He also studied a motor vehicle GCSE course at his school, Haven High Technology College. In his spare time he is a keen angler, having competed for Boston Juniors. He said: I havent had much time to go much since starting my apprenticeship but hopefully once I settle in to the shift pattern more, I might get chance to do get out on my days off.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Statement issued to the BBC]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/statement-issued-to-the-bbc/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/statement-issued-to-the-bbc/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Plevin have issued a statement to the BBC in response to recent transmissions, Jamie Plevin, managing director of Plevin, said: Plevins environmental responsibilities are paramount to its whole operation. As a family firm that has been operating here since 1995, we take our responsibilities to the local community extremely seriously and continually strive to engage with residents over any concerns they may have. We operate within the law in a heavily regulated industry. In-depth air quality monitoring recently completed by the Environment Agency has confirmed that there has been no breach of the air quality standards in the locality that can be attributed to Plevins operations. We believe it is unfair of the BBC to put the spotlight on Plevin in a general debate about World Health Organisation air quality monitoring standards. Furthermore we feel it is highly unprofessional to base its story on the unfounded and unproven health claims of a small local action group with other agendas. We would point to the fact that the NHS for Tameside and Glossop has found no evidence to suggest an abnormal recorded prevalence of respiratory problems within the Mossley area. Furthermore, both the Health Protection Agency and the Primary Care Trust have confirmed that no medical professionals have ever expressed any health concerns in relation to wood dust. As a responsible company and employer that operates within the law, we are extremely disappointed that the BBC is trying to tarnish our reputation in this way. Plevins employs 71 people at its wood recycling plant on Cheshire Street, 56 of whom live within 10 miles of the site. Plevins provides an invaluable environmental service to the north west region by recycling unwanted waste wood into useable products that would otherwise go to landfill. We are continually making new investments and recently invested a considerable amount of money in an acoustic barrier to further improve noise reduction. We are constantly striving to be a good neighbor and our door is always open to residents keen to pro-actively engage with us. We sincerely hope that the negative focus that will be placed on Mossley as a result of the sensationalised views of a minority action group will not tarnish the villages reputation, nor that of the honest and upstanding local folk. Ends]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[The BBC Inside Out programme - the real position]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/the-bbc-inside-out-programme-the-real-position/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/the-bbc-inside-out-programme-the-real-position/</guid> <description><![CDATA[BBC Inside Out Programme the real position Thank you for visiting our website to find out more. Here is fuller detail to put in context the broadcast from Monday 25th February As a responsible, family-owned company, Plevin is keen to reassure residents following an item on regional BBC TV linking our wood recycling operations to alleged health problems in Mossley. The content concerning Plevin was based on groundless claims made by members of a small local action group with other agendas. We want to assure the local community that we operate entirely within the law in an extremely heavily regulated industry.Environmental considerations are at the forefront of all our operations and these spurious allegations are completely unfounded. Background to the programme Plevin made strong protests to the BBC production team in the weeks running up to the programme. We expressed our deep concern to its producer and its managing editor, saying we believed it was unfair of the BBC to put the spotlight on Plevin in a general debate about World Health Organisation air quality monitoring standards, especially when Plevin had been proven to have done nothing wrong. We told them that we believed it was highly unprofessional of the BBC to base its story and give airtime to the unfounded and unproven health claims of a small local action group with other agendas. Example of a previous campaign against Plevin by this group In late 2011, the same group issued a press release to a variety of media, including the BBC, in which it made similar allegations. Plevin was concerned that the claims could cause considerable damage to the good name and reputation of our business. We were left with no alternative but to instruct solicitors to ask the group to recall the comments and never to repeat them. The group was forced to recall them. We were therefore surprised when, in early 2013, based on these same allegations, the BBC informed us it had chosen to highlight our business as part of a general debate about whether World Health Organisation air quality standards should be lowered. Plevins clean bill of health Exhaustive surveys by statutory regulatory bodies such as the Health Protection Agency (HPA) and the Environment Agency (EA) have proved that air quality standards in Mossley are well within safe limits. Indeed the Health Protection Agency has pointed out that the average PM2.5 (particulate matter) concentration found in the vicinity of Plevin over a five month monitoring period was 8.2 g/m3 - which is consistent with similar environments and lower than the average for UK cities as a whole (13 g/m3). To put that in a Europe-wide context, EC member states are expected to ensure that the annual average concentration of PM2.5 does not exceed 25 g/ m3 and the current proposal is to reduce that to a maximum of 20 g/ m3. Therefore should the ceiling be lowered by the EC, the air quality in the vicinity of Plevin will still be well within the quality standards. In a statement the HPA said: Particulate matter in ambient air arises from numerous sources including road traffic and industrial sources. The Environment Agency undertook monitoring in the vicinity of Plevin (7th September 2011 to 12th January 2012) and found the mean PM2.5 concentration over the monitoring period to equal 8.2 g/m3. This PM2.5 measurement includes emissions from Plevin as well as other sources such as road traffic and is broadly comparable with typical background levels of ambient air pollution in the UK. To put these values into context, the typical annual mean PM2.5 concentrations at background locations in major cities in the UK is around 13 g/m3. Based on reported levels during this monitoring period, we would expect the risk from air pollution to local residents in the vicinity of Plevin to be low and comparable to risks from typical background ambient air pollution elsewhere in the UK. Across Europe, Member States are expected to ensure that the annual average concentration of PM2.5 does not exceed 25 g/m3. EU legislation also aims to reduce the levels of PM2.5 to which the population is exposed and as a result each Member State should achieve an Exposure Concentration Obligation (ECO) of no more than 20 g/m3 averaged nationally across background sites in major urban centres over 3 years. No reported problems from health professionals Furthermore, no health professionals, such as GPs, in the area have ever reported any elevated health problems. Our dust emissions are well within limits The Environment Agency (EA) carried out dust surveys in October 2009 and March 2010. Plevin itself has been carrying out continuous dust monitoring since November 2005. The results of all dust surveys have shown that our site is operating well within the conditions of our environmental permit. The permit is a legal document that lays down strict conditions about dust and noise emissions from the site. Latest independent dust testing also exonerated Plevin In Autumn 2011, we welcomed a decision by the Environment Agency to carry out continuous dust monitoring using the latest equipment capable of detecting smaller dust particles if they are present in the air. We saw it as a means of proving finally that there were no problems with dust emissions at Plevin. The air monitoring was amongst the most rigorous and in-depth ever carried out in the Mossley area. A mobile monitoring facility (MMF) was deployed by the EA near Miller Hey in Mossley for three to four months, close to the homes of residents who had expressed concerns over air quality.. The hi-tech equipment took air samples continuously in real time and monitored levels of polluting air particles. This equipment produces detailed information about air quality at a specific location, giving the EA evidence to find a potential source of pollution. The results of this independent study completely exonerated Plevin, so we cannot understand why the action group continues to complain about our operations. Our attitude to the community Plevin has been entirely transparent and open with members of the action group from the start, and have sought to address their concerns. We are also more than willing to engage with other members of the community who want to find out more about us. Thank you Thank you for taking the time to read our side of this issue. We appreciate your interest. Plevin is an open company that works hard to be a responsible business and a good neighbour. If you would like any further information, please contact Jamie Plevin, owner and managing director. He or one of his senior managers will be pleased to respond to your query. ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Independent study offers reassurance over air quality]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/independent-study-offers-reassurance-over-air-quality/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/independent-study-offers-reassurance-over-air-quality/</guid> <description><![CDATA[ Only pollution incident in 4 months caused by Bonfire Night Findlings represent most detailed analysis to date Airbourne particulate levels near Plevin site well within safe limits PLEVIN has welcomed the publication of an independent report into air quality near its Mossley plant. The Environment Agency (EA) analysis found that levels of tiny air particles (PM10 and PM2.5) near our site, on Cheshire Street, were in line with national guidelines and within safe limits. The reports findings are based on detailed air quality monitoring. A mobile monitoring facility (MMF) was used for four months, from September 2011 to January 2012. The equipment took air samples, continuously monitoring levels of particulates and nitrogen dioxide (NO2). Managing director Jamie Plevin said the report should serve to reassure any residents who may have concerns over air quality in Mossley. He added: We have a good relationship with the vast majority of people in Mossley. Hopefully these scientific findings, which represent the most sophisticated and detailed analysis to date, will demonstrate that Plevin is not connected in any way to alleged health problems reported by some residents living nearby. Over the course of 125 days of real-time monitoring carried out by the Environment Agency, there was just one occasion on which national objectives for PM10 particle concentration were exceeded and that was Bonfire Night. The report states: The data suggests that a bonfire was relatively nearby, which caused these elevated PM10 levels. This is supported by the PM2.5 data which also saw elevated levels during the same period. It continues: It was highly likely that the exceedance was caused by particulate originating from a local bonfire, and as part of a nationwide pollution episode. This demonstrates that these high levels are not typical of the area as a whole, but can be caused by more national-based pollution events. Regarding levels of PM10 particles, the report adds: If the assumption is made that the conditions during the monitoring period were representative of a typical year, then the results would indicate that the Air Quality Strategy (AQS) annual mean objectives would not be exceeded at the site. The overall objective of the study was to identify local sources of air pollution, and quantify the environmental impact of emissions from these sources on the surrounding area and the local community. Within this objective, the study aimed to: Assess the general air quality of the area relative to the Air Quality Strategy (AQS) objectives Quantify the impact of surrounding pollution sources on local air quality Identify specific sources causing an appreciable impact on air quality Identify and understand the conditions that give rise to episodes of poor air quality Monitoring equipment was deployed at Miller Hey, to the north east of the Plevin site. The report concludes: Comparing the collected data from the monitoring at Mossley with the (Air Quality Strategy) AQS objectives showed that the monitoring location was subject to concentrations of PM10, PM2.5 and NO2 that were likely to meet their respective objectives. During the study no bias in the measured levels was experienced from the direction of R. Plevin. It was noted that wind from these directions was experienced 24 per cent of the overall time during the study. Jamie said: We hope these findings will satisfy all of our neighbours that Plevin runs a safe, compliant operation that is not having an adverse impact on air quality in Mossley.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Growing wood recycling firm strengthens top team]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/growing-wood-recycling-firm-strengthens-top-team/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/growing-wood-recycling-firm-strengthens-top-team/</guid> <description><![CDATA[A wood recycling company has kicked off a major recruitment drive by strengthening its senior management team. Plevin, which is applying for planning permission to build a wood-fuelled biomass CHP (combined heat and power) plant at is Nottingham site, has made a series of key appointments across its transport, training and HR departments. More new arrivals are expected in the coming months as the family-owned company continues to grow despite the ongoing economic malaise. Plevins new transport manager, Chris Orrell, brings 17 years experience in managing logistics operations. The 42-year-old is aiming to build on the success of Plevins transport department to continually improve the service it provides to customers. He said I am delighted to be working at Plevin. The team is very focused on its work and I can see a bright future for the company. Newly-appointed HR manager Melanie Rigby, 40, will aim to reinforce a culture of continuous improvement at Plevin. It is a pleasure to work for Plevin said Melanie It is great to see such progressive thinking within a business that is creating job opportunities for the communities in which it works. Andy Maxwell, who was part of a team that won a Corporate Safety Award in 2010 and was shortlisted for a Motor Transport Award in 2011, will bring nearly 30 years experience in the transport, logistics and supply chain industry to his new role as training officer. Former rugby league player Des Corfield, 43, is looking forward to bringing out the best in his staff in his new role as site manager at Plevins head office in Mossley. Managing director Jamie Plevin said We are delighted to welcome four new staff to strengthen our team. These are exciting times for Plevin, and with our new team members in place we can build further on the success we have enjoyed of late.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Bedding producer in exciting packaging redesign]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/bedding-producer-in-exciting-packaging-redesign/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/bedding-producer-in-exciting-packaging-redesign/</guid> <description><![CDATA[EQUESTRIAN bedding producer Plevin has unveiled new packaging for its market-leading Snowflake and Woodpecker brands. The revamped packaging now includes Plevin's contact details and the newly launched interactive website. Plevin group sales manager Colin Smith said. "The thinking behind the re-design was to freshen up the visual look of our packaging and bring it in line with our corporate image" "Previously, the packaging we used for our respected Snowflake and Woodpecker products did not mention Plevin at all." "These brands are now so popular we felt it important to ensure customers know exactly who makes them. They're a key part of our family of brands so we've ensured our name, web address and phone number are now clearly visible." "We're so confident about thier quality thet we've even included an invitation for customers to rate our products on line." Plevin employess 150 people across five UK sites. It collects, processes and distributes 600,000 tonnes of wood a year. Its Snowflake and Woodpecker bedding is 100 per cent softwood, dust extracted and manufactured to the highest possible standard. Plevin supplies bedding to some of he UK's most prestigious equestrian shows, including the recent Longines Royal International Horse Show and Plevin British Showjumping Scope Festival. Other customers include major supermarkets and large-scale pet wholesalers, as well as some of the UK's largest agricultutal outlets.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Elkesley firm leads UK export drive with renewable energy deal]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/elkesley-firm-leads-uk-export-drive-with-renewable-energy-deal/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/elkesley-firm-leads-uk-export-drive-with-renewable-energy-deal/</guid> <description><![CDATA[A WOOD recycling company thatss just invested 750,000 in its base near Retford has won a contract to supply biomass timber to a renewable energy plant in Sweden.Plevin will supply the material from its Elkesley site in an 18-month deal starting later this month. The timber will be exported to Sweden via Grimsby docks.Plevin managing director Jamie Plevin said: We are building a strong client base in the renewable energy sector, and this latest deal strengthens our position even further.Plevin is pleased to be leading the UKs export drive at a time when a great deal of emphasis is being placed on rebalancing the economy and the march of the makers.People in the Retford area may be interested to know that a product being manufactured locally is being exported across Europe for use in a green energy scheme.In 2011 Plevin was awarded an exclusive contract to supply waste timber for a 120m biomass-fired renewable energy plant at Blackburn Meadows, near Sheffield.The family-owned company recently spent more than 750,000 on new equipment at its Elkesley site, where it employs around 50 people.The investment will further improve quality, and ensure the site is as environmentally friendly as possible.Jamie added: We are committed to developing our Elkesley site over the long term, and are keen to ensure it benefits from the very latest in environmental management best practice.Plevin manufactures a wide range of sustainable products from virgin and waste wood materials.The company is one of the biggest suppliers of animal bedding products in the country, with customers including supermarkets and pet wholesalers.Plevin is applying for planning permission to build a green energy plant at its Elkesley site, on Crookford Hill. The biomass CHP (combined heat and power) plant would be carbon neutral, creating green heat and electricity from wood.It would use around 22,000 tonnes of waste wood, sourced mainly from local civic amenity sites that would otherwise go to landfill. Excess electricity would be exported to the National Grid, for use by households and businesses.The plant would offset about 25,000 tonnes of CO2 a year equivalent to the annual CO2 output of about 4,500 UK households. It would also create 16 full-time permanent jobs, including apprenticeships.A public consultation period runs until October 4, and Notts County Council planners are likely to make a decision on the proposals later this year or in early 2013.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Plevin hops to it and helps furry friends]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-hops-to-it-and-helps-furry-friends/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-hops-to-it-and-helps-furry-friends/</guid> <description><![CDATA[A FAMILY-owned firm has responded to a plea from an animal rescue centre by supplying some much-needed bedding. Plevin, the wood recycling company headquartered in Mossley, Greater Manchester, decided to help Tameside Rabbit and Guinea Pig Rescue following an appeal for food, hay, straw and shavings in the Tameside Reporter newspaper. The centre, in Audenshaw, recently took in 21 rabbits from the RSPCA. Prior to being rescued the animals had been living in awful conditions, with rats in their cages and no access to daylight. The centre was thrilled to receive a call from Plevin group sales manager Colin Smith offering to provide 100 bales of Plevins market-leading Woodpecker shavings saving the centre about 700. A spokesperson for the rescue centre said: I am extremely grateful to Plevin for their help. The donation has made a massive difference at a very busy and challenging time for us. Its nice to know that one of the areas biggest employers still finds the time to help good causes in the community. Colin said: We are pleased to be able to help such as worthwhile cause. When I saw the appeal in the Reporter I had no hesitation in picking up the phone. Hopefully our donation will go some way towards making life more bearable for the rabbits. Plevin is one of the UKs leading wood processing and recycling companies collecting, processing and distributing 600,000 tonnes of wood a year. It employs 150 people across five UK sites, including 65 at its Mossley headquarters from where it has produced a wide range of sustainable wood-based products since 1995. The company sources waste wood from council civic amenity sites, skip hire firms, pallet manufacturers and joinery workshops. Earlier this year Plevin announced it was teaming up with New Charter Housing Trust, supplying wood pellets for use in a biomass boiler that forms part of a groundbreaking renewable energy system at Cavendish Mill in Ashton-under-Lyne. In addition to its Woodpecker bedding products, Plevin also produces a range of small animal bedding products under its Snowflake brand.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Former jobseeker marks a year with Tameside firm]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/former-jobseeker-marks-a-year-with-tameside-firm/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/former-jobseeker-marks-a-year-with-tameside-firm/</guid> <description><![CDATA[ A young man who struggled to find work after leaving college says his life has been transformed since securing a job with a family-owned company in Mossley. Mike Essue, from Denton, was unemployed for more than a year after leaving Hyde Clarendon Sixth Form College despite achieving A-levels in IT, law, business studies and English Literature. He found out about Future Jobs Fund opportunities being offered by Tameside Metropolitan Borough Council, and secured a six-month paid placement at wood recycling firm Plevin. The 21-year-old impressed Plevin so much in his role as trainee sales administrator that he was offered a permanent position. That was a year ago, and Mike has since developed to become a vital member of the sales team. He has recently completed an NVQ level 3 in customer service and is tipped to have a bright future ahead of him.Plevin sales manager Colin Smith said: Mike did a fantastic job during his placement and we had no hesitation in taking him on as a permanent employee. He hasnt let us down since then. Everyone here at Plevin is pleased with his progress, and he has become a highly valued employee in a relatively short period of time. Plevin is one of the UKs leading wood processing and recycling companies. It collects, processes and distributes 600,000 tonnes of wood a year and prevents 200,000 tonnes of waste going to landfill annually. Family-owned Plevin purchased the Mossley site, also its head office, in late 1995. The company now employs 65 people there 54 of whom live within 10 miles. Mike said: Its very tough out there for young people in the jobs market at the moment, so I guess Im one of the lucky ones. Plevin is a good company to work for. Ive learnt lots of new skills and gained a qualification. Im pleased the company decided to show faith in me by taking me on as an employee. Plevin sources waste wood from council civic amenity sites, skip hire firms, pallet manufacturers and joinery workshops to create a range of sustainable products. These include animal bedding, cat litter, wood shavings and wood chips. In late 2011 Plevin announced major growth plans after being awarded an exclusive contract by E.ON to supply waste timber for a 120m biomass-fired renewable energy plant at Blackburn Meadows, near Sheffield. The 1bn Future Jobs Fund has been abolished as part of the coalition governments spending cuts.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Wood recycler secures major green energy contract]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/wood-recycler-secures-major-green-energy-contract/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/wood-recycler-secures-major-green-energy-contract/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Wood recycling firm R Plevin Sons has announced major growth plans after securing an exclusive contract to supply waste timber for a 120m biomass-fired renewable energy plant. The multi-million pound contract, awarded to Plevin by E.ON, is the most lucrative in the family-owned companys 38-year history. It will enable Plevin to create a raft of new jobs at its existing sites and embark on an ambitious expansion programme. The biomass-fired facility, based at Blackburn Meadows near Sheffield, will generate up to 30MW enough to power 40,000 homes by converting recycled waste wood into electricity. Construction work will begin at the end of November and the plant is expected to become operational in mid 2014. Managing director Jamie Plevin said: This contract marks an extremely significant milestone in the growth of our company, and we are naturally thrilled. In order to meet the demand, we will be creating new jobs at our existing sites as well as opening a number of new facilities at strategic locations. This geographical expansion will happen either through acquisitions, or through opening new sites ourselves. I would like to reassure our existing customers that this contract will not affect them, as we will be increasing capacity in order to meet the heightened demand. Luke Ellis, project manager at E.ON, said: It was important to us to use UK-sourced recycled waste wood to power the Blackburn Meadows plant. We look forward to working with R Plevin Sons. Plevin is one of the UKs leading wood processing and recycling companies collecting, processing and distributing 600,000 tonnes of wood a year. It employs 150 people across six sites Mossley, Greater Manchester; Elkesley, Nottinghamshire; Boston, Lincolnshire; Newport, South Wales; Kings Lynn, Norfolk and Slimbridge, Gloucestershire. Plevin manufactures a range of wood-based products from virgin and waste wood materials. It sources waste wood from council civic amenity sites, skip hire firms, pallet manufacturers and joinery workshops.]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Plevin Boosts Delivery Service]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-boosts-delivery-service/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/plevin-boosts-delivery-service/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Wood recycling firm Plevin is celebrating the arrival of a delivery vehicle that will offer significant benefits to poultry bedding customers. The companys all-new walking floor blower trailer will take Plevins highly regarded delivery service to the next level. Group sales manager Colin Smith said: We are delighted to confirm that we are now offering customers in the poultry sector the facility of a walking floor blower trailer for deliveries of our woodfibre woodchip base / set-up bedding. We understand the importance of bio-security within the poultry industry. The new blow trailer will enhance the cleanliness and bio-security of our products even further, as the bedding can be blown directly into sheds. Our woodfibre poultry bedding is produced to the highest specification, and with our complete delivered price package we are offering some extremely competitive prices. Plevin is one of the UKs leading wood processing and recycling companies, and employs 150 people across five sites. Its head office is based in Tameside, Greater Manchester. The company manufactures a range of sustainable wood-based products from virgin and waste wood materials, including bedding for the equestrian and domestic pet market as well as the poultry market. ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Wood-fuelled green energy plant move step closer]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/wood-fuelled-green-energy-plant-move-step-closer/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/wood-fuelled-green-energy-plant-move-step-closer/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Plans for a small-scale renewable energy plant in Nottinghamshire have taken a step forward. Wood recycling firm Plevin has been notified that the Environment Agency (EA) has published for consultation a draft environmental permit for the companys proposed biomass CHP (combined heat and power) plant at Elkesley. The decision to publish a draft permit indicates that the EA is satisfied that the proposed facility will be environmentally safe. If given the go-ahead, the carbon-neutral plant would be built at Plevins existing site at Elkesley.A total of 16 full-time permanent jobs, including apprenticeships, would be created. There would also be opportunities for local firms to supply goods and services during the construction period. The proposed facility would create green heat and electricity from waste wood, offsetting 25,000 tonnes of CO2 a year equivalent to the combined annual CO2 output of 4,500 UK households. It would use around 22,000 tonnes of waste wood, sourced mainly from local civic amenity sites. The waste wood would otherwise go to landfill. Plevin intends to use electricity generated by the plant to power its existing manufacturing plant, as well as heat to dry the wood shavings made there. Excess renewable electricity would be exported to the National Grid, for supply to households and businesses. Managing director Jamie Plevin said: We welcome this decision as it demonstrates the Environment Agencys faith in our proposals. We are aware that there has been concern over the plant in some sections of the community.Hopefully this will go some way to reassure residents that, if given the go-ahead, the biomass plant will be safe and environmentally friendly. The plant can only be built and operated once Plevin has secured both an environmental permit and planning permission. A permit would ensure that the plant conforms to the highest possible environmental standards.It would regulate the impact of the plant on the environment by setting stringent conditions on the plants emissions to air, land and water. Plevin is a family-owned business that has grown to become one of the UKs leading wood recycling companies. The company collects, processes and distributes 600,000 tonnes of wood annually.Plevin manufactures a wide range of sustainable products from virgin and waste wood materials.The company is one of the biggest suppliers of animal bedding products in the country, with customers including supermarkets and pet wholesalers. Earlier this year Plevin announced major growth plans after being awarded an exclusive contract by E.ON to supply waste timber for a 120m biomass-fired renewable energy plant at Blackburn Meadows, near Sheffield. ]]></description> </item> <item> <title><![CDATA[Planned CHP Plant FAQ's]]></title> <link>http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/planned-chp-plant-faq-s/</link> <guid isPermaLink="true">http://www.plevin.co.uk/news/planned-chp-plant-faq-s/</guid> <description><![CDATA[Here are answers to some frequently asked questions, as well as some key facts. FAQs Q: What exactly do the proposals involve? A: Plevin is applying for planning permission to build a biomass-fuelled power plant to supply energy to our existing wood-based processing site in Elkesley, together with a new integrated wood-chip drying plant. Q: What would it look like? A: The proposed development consists of four main buildings: one to dry the wood material; one to flake it; one for new office accommodation and one containing the CHP plant itself. These buildings would be connected by a high-level covered conveyor mechanism. There would be a single stack, or chimney, for the CHP, and three smaller stacks for the drier. Q: How big is the proposed plant? A: The chimney would have a maximum height of 30m. The buildings and smaller stacks would have a maximum height of around 20m. Q: What would the energy be used for? A: The plant would produce about 1.6 megawatts (MW) of electricity and eight MW of thermal energy. This would provide enough electricity for our site, plus a small excess for export to the National Grid. In addition, we will also use the thermal energy to dry wood products at our plant. Q: Will there be air emissions and will they pollute the environment? A: All emissions will be cleaned and made safe before they leave the stack. Emission and combustion controls in the design and operation of the plant mean all relevant air quality standards and guidelines will be achieved. Emissions to air will have no significant adverse impacts on air quality, the natural environment, or the health of local people. We would not get permission to build and operate it without proving this. Q: Will the new plant be noisy? A: We have incorporated several measures into the proposed design to ensure noise is kept to a minimum. For example, openings to buildings face the middle of the site and modern construction materials are used. The log entry conveyor has been covered and the wood flaker carefully designed. Noise levels are not predicted to increase significantly when the plant starts to operate. Q: How much waste would be produced? A: A minimal amount. The combustion units and associated plant would produce approximately eight tonnes per week of fly ash and bottom ash, which would be segregated to maximise the potential for off-site ash reuse and recycling. Any other waste products would be recycled wherever possible or disposed of using the local waste disposal routes. Drainage and sewerage will be processed along with that from the existing plant. Q: How will you prevent dust escaping? A: All potentially dusty materials would be stored indoors, within the new buildings. Environmental controls would limit the emission of dust from all buildings and processing areas. Q: How has the plants impact been measured? A: The potential effects were assessed using computer-based atmospheric dispersion modelling techniques (ADMS), and other approaches. The study used worst-case assumptions and took existing air quality levels into account. Meteorological data for the dispersion model was obtained from the Met Office. Q: What has been done to protect wildlife? A: We plan to create bird and bat boxes and plant trees and shrubs to protect local habitats and wildlife. These measures would ensure compliance with all relevant UK and European legislation. Q: Will emissions affect local habitats? A: An assessment of potential emission impacts on nearby designated sites found that all process contributions were below 0.2 per cent, which is well below guidelines produced by the Environment Agency. These guidelines indicate a contribution of less than one per cent can be considered insignificant. Q: How would the plant be regulated? A: The environmental permit from the Environment Agency sets stringent conditions on the plants emissions to air, land and water. If the plant is built, Environment Agency officers will have permanent access to real-time emissions data, so be able to monitor emissions 24 hours, seven days a week. Q: When is a decision likely to be made regarding planning permission? A: Nottinghamshire County Council will have the final say on whether planning permission is granted. The proposals are due to go before the council's planning committee by the end of 2012. KEY FACTS Fuel for the state-of-the-art plant would be mainly locally sourced waste wood from local authority civic amenity sitesOther sources would include waste wood from skip hire firms, pallet manufacturers and joinery workshops waste wood would otherwise go to landfill The CHP plant would produce 1.6 megawatts of renewable electricity and eight megawatts of renewable heat The plant would offset about 25,000 tonnes of CO2 a year - equivalent to the annual CO2 output of about 4,500 UK householdsIt would create 16 full times, permanent jobs including several for apprentices]]></description> </item> </channel> </rss>