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UK cement production drops to lowest levels since 1950s
Image: iStock
WHAT?
UK cement production has fallen to its lowest level since 1950, putting the government's housebuilding plan at risk, a trade body has warned.
WHY?
The Mineral Products Association (MPA) said that production levels were “increasingly under threat” because of high energy, regulatory and labour costs.
HOW?
The UK made just 7.3 million tonnes of cement in 2024, according to the MPA, about half of that produced in 1990 and similar to production levels seen when rationing was still in place.
750,000 tonnes
The amount of cement required to build Sizewell C nuclear power plant in Suffolk.
Source: MPA
8,000 tonnes
The amount of cement required to build a new hospital.
Source: MPA
32%
The proportion of cement in the UK that was imported in 2024, up from 12% in 2008.
Source: MPA
Image: iStock
BIG PICTURE
UK cement production drops to lowest levels since 1950s
Image: Getty