With Brightenview’s massive development yet to begin, there is construction on a new business coming to Blenheim.
D.J. Clarke Holdings recently received planning approval at municipal council to proceed with construction of a nearly 7,500-square-metre facility on Communication Road.
Mayor Randy Hope said the plant would initially employ about 25 people, but there is potential to nearly double that amount down the road.
“It’s a plastics company that will be establishing and consolidating with potential market opportunity to grow the new business,” he said. “There will be about 25 employees to start, but knowing the individuals who are operating the facility, there’s huge potential for growth.”
The facility will produce sheet plastic, some of which is used to line the boards in arenas.
While there are still a few planning details to iron out, Hope said the company anticipates being operational by spring of next year.
He was happy to land the jobs in Chatham-Kent.
“We were in competition against other communities to keep it in the area. We had to make sure we placed a strong business plan for them to do it here,” he said. “I’m glad they decided to stick around and participate in our local economy.”
Hope said he likes to see businesses such as this come, or remain, in Chatham-Kent.
“This diversifies the community. And it’s another one away from the auto sector,” he said. “There are potential opportunities for this business; more opportunities equals more employment in the area.”
