A PARTNERSHIP has been created to tackle 140million tonnes of surplus construction materials going to waste.

Sunbelt Rentals has partnered with Carlisle's The Rebuild Site. 

The Rebuild Site was set up with the purpose of rethinking how to better use materials, reclaiming materials that are currently being thrown away or downcycled, and reusing as much excess and ‘nearly-new’ materials as possible.

It takes surplus materials to provide them to community groups and charities to help with their projects, as well as sell the items at reduced prices to the local public and trades.

Sunbelt Rentals played a key role in helping The Rebuild Site move its operations to a larger capacity area, enabling it to increase its space for storing and distributing materials that otherwise would have become waste, as well as have the space for new circular economy initiatives.

Sunbelt Rentals assisted with the planning, producing site surveys and blueprints for the new location, and provided equipment and hands-on support to fully renovate and prepare the new section.

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Sarah MacGregor, social impact manager from Sunbelt Rentals said: "We’re thrilled to help boost the capacity and infrastructure of The Rebuild Site, as the landmark project provides part of the solution for the construction industry to work towards zero avoidable waste in a unique and socially conscious way.

"In the short time, they have been up and running The Rebuild Site has already supported over 20 community projects making a significant difference to those living in the area local to our Cumbrian depots.

"This outcome, alongside the environmental benefits of the project, is extremely powerful."

Emma Porter, rebuild site director said: "The support from the Sunbelt Rentals team to help get us moved into a bigger space has been amazing.

"Expanding our operations will enable us to support more community projects, to prevent more usable materials going to waste and to continue to drive the adoption of circular economy practices.

"Positive, practical and encouraging throughout, Sunbelt Rentals have thought of things we wouldn't have considered, planned the move, provided tools, materials, volunteers and support.

"Thank you," she said.