Established in 1894, Blockleys has a long and proud history of brickmaking (over 130 years!), built on traditional craftsmanship and regional industry. Over the past few decades, the site has transformed from a multi-plant operation into a modern, efficient and forward-thinking facility within the Michelmersh Group. This transformation reflects years of investment, innovation and cultural progress.
Before joining Michelmersh in 2000, Blockleys operated several production plants across the site. The 4th and 5th plant, once manufacturing bricks and specials, had closed, while the 6th, 7th, 8th and 9th plants remained active.Plants 6 and 7 housed two tunnel kilns producing soft mud, wirecut and smooth bricks, while the 8th and 9th plants operated one tunnel kiln and two batch kilns for wirecut bricks, pavers and specials. Together, these operations employed over 120 people and maintained a production stock of around 80 million bricks.
At that time, Blockleys operated as a traditional and highly manual workplace. Production was physically demanding, however, despite the challenges, a core group of skilled workers maintained the site’s productivity and reputation for quality.
Michelmersh’s acquisition of the site in 2000 marked a significant turning point. Investment in infrastructure, process efficiency and training began to modernise the business with a renewed focus on quality, safety and collaboration. Alongside, and in collaboration with, Blockley’s loyal customer base, the production output became more focused on a core range of products designed. The emphasis with these changes was to balance production volumes alongside delivering sustainable growth, to underpin the long-term commercial success of the site.
During the economic downturn of 2009, further restructuring was unfortunately required to secure the future of the business. Operations were consolidated within the 8th and 9th plant as production focused on wirecut bricks. From this point, Blockleys began to rebuild, supported by continued investment and an evolving operational strategy that balanced efficiency with environmental responsibility.
Since 2010, Blockleys has produced more than 340 million bricks, primarily from the 8th plant. The site has seen consistent progress in product quality, output and environmental performance, alongside continual improvements in staff wellbeing and safety. Health and safety standards remain a consistent focus, with modern working conditions and professional development placed at the centre of operations.
Throughout recent years there has been extensive upgrades across the site. Major developments include the installation of a new emissions abatement systems, automated dehacking and unloading robotics, and improved local exhaust ventilation systems. Solar panels, hybrid forklift trucks and modern quarry vehicles have reduced environmental impact, while new stockyards, blending platforms and a quarry wheel wash have strengthened production capability. A new access road was constructed to support the local authority, and this has improved logistics for local housing and amenities as well as extending access to mineral reserves. Across the site, new workshops, stores, offices, rest areas and welfare facilities have created a safer and more efficient working environment, supported by improved walkways, CCTV systems and enhanced PPE and RPE provisions for all staff.
These investments reflect Blockleys’ continued commitment to responsible manufacturing, sustainability and continuous improvement. What began as a traditional brickworks facility has developed into a modern production facility that combines heritage with innovation. Today, Blockleys stands as a clear example of how long-term investment in people, technology and culture can strengthen both product quality and community value, supporting Michelmersh’s reputation as Britain’s Brick Specialists.
