CLEARFIELD – The British are coming to Lawrence Township and bringing jobs.
At Tuesday’s meeting, the Lawrence Township Planning Committee approved a conditional use manufacturing request from Makin Metal Powders.
The United Kingdom-based company has purchased about 10 acres of land at 1670 Industrial Park Rd., in the Lawrence Township Industrial Park where it plans to open a new plant.
According to its Web site, Makin Metal Powders (UK) Ltd, located in Rochdale, United Kingdom, manufactures copper powder, bronze powder, tin powder, infiltrants and press-ready, pre-mix powders, along with other related alloys. As part of the GRINM family of companies, it is one of the largest European producers of copper and copper alloy powders.
“This is a significant international project about 18 months in the making,” Rob Swales, chief executive officer of Clearly Ahead Development, said.
Swales said Makin Metal Powders manufactures the materials used by the numerous powdered metal manufacturing businesses in Clearfield and the surrounding counties.
“This is a significant development for the Clearfield area,” Clearfield County Commissioner John Sobel said. “We certainly appreciate the forward-thinking and foresight of the planning committee.”
Sobel said the Makin plant will be a significant development for the existing powdered metal industry, as the materials they need will be located in Clearfield, which will save on the expense of shipping the materials in from elsewhere.
The new plant is expected to employ about 50 individuals at first.
“It will start with modest employment, but they’re looking to grow,” Clearfield County Commissioner Tony Scotto said. “They want to build and to spread.”
“This is a good sign for the area,” Planning Committee member Dave Nelson said. “People are looking at coming to Clearfield County and we welcome you.”