Builders praised for dedication

Photo: Vincent Brown

Some of the many staff at Bullock construction who have been nominated for a Pride in Oldham award for their work on the new extra care unit in Royton with site manager Ian Oakes (far right) Picture By: Vincent Brown

PIONEERING work to transform accommodation for older people across the borough has earned a major construction firm a Pride in Oldham nomination.

Bullock Construction joined forces with Oldham Council and Housing 21, the not-for-profit property organisation, in an ambitious £400 million private finance initiative (PFI) to revamp residential homes and build specialised extra care units.

And their work on the new Tandle View Court development in Rochdale Lane, Royton, has gone down particularly well with two women.

Doris Smith and Lilian Day said: “The staff at Bullock have shown total dedication and commitment to work and no matter what the weather is they are always cheerful and work very hard and are conscientious in their duties.”

The team has been working at the site since February last year and is expected to pack up at the end of this year, leaving behind a complex containing 59 specially adapted flats, complete with a restaurant, shop, hairdressers and day centre.

Ian Lewsey, communications manager for major projects at Housing 21, said: “The construction staff at Bullock worked really hard on the Rochdale Lane project.

“They had to work through some very challenging conditions, especially around New Year when they the weather was horrendous. On one particular occasion, they were laying some rendering and the rain washed it all off, so they had to start all over again.

“They’ve certainly done a fantastic job.”

The PFI, which also incorporates the Allied Irish Bank and the Co-operative Bank, opened a new sheltered accommodation complex at Lees House earlier this year and extensively refurbished Holland Close in Delph, with the first specialised extra care unit opening at Trinity House in Coldhurst this autumn.

But the new development at Royton is seen as the PFI’s flagship development. Mr Lewsey said: “The projects that Bullock are working with us on will transform the care of older people in the borough. It will allow them to enjoy independent living while staying in a caring and supportive environment.”



To nominate someone for a Pride in Oldham award, tell us:

The name of the person or group nominated

A contact number for them, if known

Their job title and place of work, if relevant

Your reason for the nomination

Your name

Your contact number

Send your info by email to editorial@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , marked “Pride in Oldham Awards, 2008




Pride in Oldham is supported by:

Innovative Technology

J W Lees Brewery

Molnlycke Health Care

Northern Counties Housing Association

Oldham Council

University Centre Oldham

Warburtons