From 2024-2026 British Ceramics Biennial (BCB) commissioned a research project exploring the creative reuse of construction spoil clay. The research was carried out by BCB Researcher Claire Baily and was supported by Louise Trodden (HS2 Arts & Culture Team).

Research Project

Claire began investigating the opportunities and challenges of accessing and reusing clay sourced from UK construction spoil. Construction generates vast quantities of spoil that are routinely downgraded, discarded or sent to landfill despite their material potential. The environmental cost is significant: carbon emissions from transport and disposal, pressure on landfill systems and the continued extraction of depleting virgin resources. At the same time, artists, designers, engineers, architects and community practitioners are demonstrating alternative approaches revealing how spoil clay can support new forms of making, building and collaboration.

This research examines existing uses of construction clay spoil, as well as new and potential uses by artists, creative organisations and industry. It examines circular economy practices at a variety of scales, culminating in a published research document and a conference at the 2025 Biennial. The conference brought together practitioners from art, construction, science and design, creating space for cross-disciplinary dialogue. It revealed the innovative and imaginative potential of partnerships between construction and the creative industries.

Research Publication

To disseminate the research findings, a newspaper has been published. This document does not present a definitive answer or single solution. Instead, it offers a snapshot of the field at this moment: a survey of practices, pressures and emerging possibilities. It shares learning gathered through research, case studies and collaborative exchange. Its purpose is to raise awareness, support knowledge exchange and encourage further research and experimentation.