Historic former South Wales valleys ‘button factory’ up for auction

A former leading plastic mouldings factory in the south Wales valleys which was used as a drill hall by the Home Guard during the last war is facing the last throw of the dice.

The factory was once specialised in the production of dice, plastic games figures and buttons, employing at its height a workforce of some sixty people.

With a history of manufacturing and skilled employment stretching back many decades, the industrial building and yard at Catherine Crescent, in Porth, Mid Glamorgan, is now up for sale.

Originally built as a slaughterhouse in the 19th century by the coalmine owner of nearby Garth Hall. The property, known locally as The Button Factory, is being sold by Newport-based Paul Fosh Auctions.  

Precision Tools Ltd formed in 197 operated on the site from 1961-1984 and DKS Trimmings Ltd from 1984-2019.

With outline planning permission for housing, the property and; land is being listed for auction with a guide price of  £110,000.

Debra Bisley, of Paul Fosh Auctions, said: “The property is saturated in fascinating history from the height of industrial manufacturing and mine-owning history of South Wales.

“So many skilled and industrious people worked at the factory over the very many years it was operating, producing all manner of quality goods and niche products which found their way to all the corners of the world.  

 Built as a slaughterhouse by a coal mine owner who lived in Garth Hall. During the war, the premises were then used by the home guard as a drill hall and for storage.

“The premises were then taken over by Thomas and Evans to manufacture wooden crates for their Corona fizzy pop drink bottles.

“In 1961 it was occupied by Precision Tools Ltd and used for the manufacture of trimmings to the clothing trade. The factory manufactured leather buttons and buckles Their products were used by the likes of M&S, sheepskin coat manufacturers and other clothing companies.

“In 1984, due to the death of the founder of Precision Tools Ltd, DKS Trimmings Ltd. was formed by the son to carry on the manufacture of leather goods. Later DKS Trimmings Ltd. moved into injection moulding while still manufacturing leather trimmings. It was the only manufacturer, at the time in the UK, of leather buttons. DKS Trimmings Ltd. also manufactured a range of plastic products, specialising in board game components.

“What’s quite fascinating is that the Porth factory was at one time one of the leading European manufacturers of dice.

“The site being sold encompasses approximately 0.6 acres, and is comprised of five buildings and a parcel of land to the rear of the site which may allow for further development, subject to the relevant consents.

“There is outline planning consent for the proposed demolition of the existing buildings and for residential development of the site. Further information can be found via Rhondda Cynon Taff Council, reference number: 08/ 0596/13. The property benefits from gas, water and electric (not tested).

“Located in Porth, a 20 minute walk from Porth train station and one minute to the A4058, the main thoroughfare through Porth. The property would seem to be an ideal location for commuters. Furthermore, it is a 15 minute walk to Hannah Street, the main High Street in the town of Porth.”

The former factory site is one of some 100 commercial and domestic properties, which go up for sale with Paul Fosh Auctions from 12 noon on Tuesday, May 16 and end from 5pm on Thursday, May 18.