Ibstock Brick received a visit from the Mayor of London yesterday.

Mayor Boris Johnson took a tour of the company’s redeveloped Chesterton factory, which has benefitted from more than £22m of investment. He took a hands-on approach to learn more about bricks and their journey from kiln to house, and even created his own handmade brick.

In particular, the Mayor was keen to learn about how Ibstock is coping with increasing demand and meeting the needs of the nation’s housing supply. He viewed Ibstock’s Everyday Special range, which is used across a range of housing and commercial projects.

“With the construction industry booming, it’s been fascinating to see first-hand where the building materials used across London’s building projects begin their journey,” said Mr Johnson. “Ibstock is a great example of successful manufacturing, providing local jobs and supporting the current boom in construction both in London and across the UK.”

John Richards, sales and marketing director at Ibstock, added: “It was a great privilege to welcome the Mayor of London to our flagship site, not only to showcase the products that are supporting a resurgence in construction in the capital and across the country, but to demonstrate the full capabilities that brick plays in the creation of sustainable and spectacular buildings.

“Indeed, the real value of brick is not to be underestimated and from its thermal credentials to aesthetic appeal, it will continue to enhance built environments up and down the country for many, many years to come.”