Bradford firm is manufacturing an innovative canal boat

Formation Plastics, a plastic manufacturing and fabrication company based off Cutler Heights Lane, Bradford, has built a 40ft by 10ft canal boat made out of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic.

Shaun Moir, sales and marketing manager at Formation Plastics, said: “We have manufactured the world's first HDPE canal boat dedicated to plastic fabrication and engineering, with a primary focus on tackling the global waste crisis.

“HDPE is a highly durable and recyclable material, so we’re trying our best to help the environment.”

The idea for the project began during the Covid pandemic and the boat’s construction has been two years in the making.  

“It’s not in the water yet, but we’re hoping it will be by the end of the year,” said Mr Moir.

“Our directors have always had a passion for boats.

“I believe we’re the only company in the world to build a canal boat out of plastic. I’ve seen a dingy built out of plastic but not a canal boat.

“Currently, canal boats are made out of stainless steel, aluminum and fibre glass.

“We’re showing people that there’s an alternative to how canal boats are built.

“Nobody has done it the way we’ve built it. We’re plastic fabricators and we’ve been doing it for 20 years, so we have the plastic knowledge. A lot of boat builders don’t know how plastic works.

“Over time a metal boat will corrode in water, but plastic won’t. It’s never-ending.

“This innovative project aims to revolutionise sustainable practices in the maritime industry while actively contributing to environmental preservation.

“Our initiative will transform discarded plastic materials into valuable resources, thereby reducing pollution and conserving natural resources."

Mr Moir also highlighted how the canal boat could have a positive impact on the local economy.

He said: “Our project has the potential to create new jobs, drive economic growth and establish our region as a hub for green technologies.”

“It’s the biggest innovation in the boating world.

“This boat is opening people’s minds. Nobody knows how good it can be.

“There are 2,000 miles of canals in the UK and 3,000 canal boats.

“The idea behind this venture has also generated significant interest and support from individuals and organisations worldwide.

“Notably, we’ve received interest from prominent entities in Holland and Italy even as far as the Middle East, renowned for their expertise in marine technology and environmental initiatives.”