ABOUT US
Newcastle Wood Recycling is a not-for-profit social enterprise on a mission to divert wood from the local waste stream, while creating inclusive opportunities for employment, training, and volunteering in our community.
We collect waste wood from construction sites, businesses, and households across the North East, giving it a second life. The timber we salvage is transformed into beautiful, handcrafted furniture and woodwork for homes, gardens, and businesses. We also offer affordable reclaimed timber for DIY projects and firewood for local households.
Since 2014, we’ve been based in a former council depot in Walker, which we’ve transformed into a vibrant, sustainable community hub. Our yard is now home to a growing collective of independent makers who share our environmental and social values. Together, we’re building a space that celebrates creativity, community, and circular economy principles.
Our project was inspired by the pioneering Brighton & Hove Wood Recycling Project, the first of its kind in the UK and the birthplace of the Community Wood Recycling network. After discovering their work, our founder Beth McDonough—a keen woodworker with a background in youth and community work—set out to bring the model to the North East, establishing Newcastle Wood Recycling CIC in 2013.
In 2025, we began an exciting new chapter. We are transitioning to a cooperative structure, with a renewed focus on collaborative leadership, shared ownership, and long-term sustainability. As part of this evolution, we are developing our governance model in line with sociocratic principles and other inclusive decision-making practices that reflect our values of transparency, equity, and participation.
We’re also delighted to have Georgina Llewelyn join us as Managing Director, taking on responsibility for the day-to-day running of the organisation. Georgina brings a wealth of experience in sales and operations, and her leadership has been instrumental in strengthening our foundations as we restructure and grow.
None of this would be possible without our small but mighty staff team and our amazing volunteers, whose dedication, creativity, and hard work have shaped every part of our journey. From sorting timber and building furniture to supporting customers and mentoring others, their contributions are at the heart of everything we do.
We’re proud to be part of a national movement that’s tackling waste, unemployment, and social isolation—one plank at a time.
If you’d like to hear what our customers and community say about us, visit our Testimonials page.
Want to support our mission?
Whether you're a business with waste wood, a potential volunteer, or a supporter who believes in what we do—we’d love to hear from you.