Chain work is in big demand

Representatives of the Oldham construction sector have been briefed on the latest supply chain opportunities.

The event, the third in the series run by the Oldham local council of the Greater Manchester Chamber, was the largest to date and attracted representatives from architectural firms, stonemasons, restoration experts, plus electrical, lighting and roofing contractors and many others with an interest in the sub-contracting work available in the Oldham borough over the coming months.

The construction events came to fruition because local firms were unable to tender in isolation for larger public sector contracts, often finding themselves outbid by national contractors with wider access to resources and materials.

Oldham contractors have formed the Oldham Construction Group, spearheaded by former Oldham Chamber president Roger Hinchliffe, a partner at Pearson Hinchliffe Commercial Law, Hollinwood.

The group has won an assurance from Oldham Council that in its specification for bids when new contracts arise, the winners of the contracts will have to incorporate an element of local labour and materials.

At the May meeting, at the Bower Hotel, Chadderton, there was a presentation by representatives from Willmott Dixon, which has been appointed to construct three academies in Oldham.

Paul Roberts, Oldham President of Greater Manchester Chamber, said: “We believe that this is one of the first initiatives of its kind in the country. It will give local companies the chance to secure work on local construction projects.

“Our events have been incredibly well-attended and interest continues to grow.

To book your place on the next Oldham Construction Event e-mail vicki.kerr@business-support-solutions.co.uk or contact Vicki Kerr on 0161-875 2359.