A new circular economy hub has opened in Park Royal, transforming a disused industrial building into a workspace for local businesses turning waste materials into usable products.
The space – Minerva Works located on Minerva Road – was officially opened last week as a circular economy hub by the Old Oak and Park Royal Development Corporation (OPDC) and is part of a wider push to boost sustainability and support creative industries in the area.
It is being run by The Republic of Park Royal and will be used for a number of local businesses focused on the the circular economy including Re-collective, Absolute Beginners and Rescued Clay.
Instead of going to landfill, waste materials from construction, HS2 excavations, discarded tyres and other materials are being reworked into useful products by local creatives.
David Lunts, chief executive of OPDC, said: “We know that Park Royal is home to a fantastic range of creators, makers and businesses who are making amazing products that will be re-used, sustainably and affordably.”
The launch event brought together artists, business owners and local stakeholders to see the space in action and meet those already working inside it. The day also marked the unveiling of OPDC’s new Sustainability Charter, which sets out a roadmap to net zero for the wider Old Oak and Park Royal area.
During its period of operation, the hub is expected to create 35 jobs, save 28 tonnes of carbon and rescue 20 tonnes of waste materials. It’s a short-term project with a long-term purpose: by spring 2026, the building will become the site of a new low-carbon energy centre using heat generated by local data centres, in partnership with sustainable energy firm Hemiko.
For now, it’s a hive of activity. Jonny Brewin of The Republic of Park Royal said: “Our thanks to OPDC for giving us the space and opportunity to develop this much needed hub, which will allow local businesses to grow and expand their important work.”
