WORK on the £640 million New South Glasgow Hospital Project is well underway in Govan and the local community is beginning to reap the rewards of this major development.
One local company, Ventrac Sheet Metal Ltd, has been awarded the contract to supply and fit the ventilation ducting for a new laboratory that will support the hospital when it is complete in 2015.
Says a spokesperson: “Ventrac had the opportunity to bid for the works as a direct result of a robust Community Benefit Agreement between Brookfield Construction (the main contractor for the hospital) and Glasgow South West Regeneration Agency.
“The agreement sets out Brookfield Constructions commitment to provide opportunities for the local community in terms of jobs, training, and SME and Social Enterprise development.”
Tommy Docherty, depute chief executive commented: “This is great news for Ventrac. This project is massive for the local area and as an agency we want to make sure we maximise the opportunities for local people.
“We’ve developed core relationships with the main contractors and under a Community Benefit agreement we are working hard to make sure people and businesses across the south west are part of it.”
Ventrac won the contract after an in-depth procurement and consultation process with the key building partner, Mercury Engineering.
Paul Serkis, commercial director for Brookfield Construction, said: “Community Benefit is an integral part of the contract and something that we take very seriously.
“It is essential that all our partners are on-board from the outset and it is fantastic to see a local firm getting a great business opportunity.
“Without doubt, this project will have a positive impact across the south west and will create chances for growth throughout the community.”
Alex McCartney, MD of Ventrac, added: “We are absolutely thrilled to have won this contract.
“Business has been very tough over the last couple of years and this work stream has provided a much needed boost for our business.
“Ventrac have been operational in Govan for over 40 years and even in the current economic climate we are hugely committed to the Govan area.
“However, this new contract has given us continuity and secured our longer-term sustainability.
“We’re in a position to see some major growth over the coming years and I’m confident that with this project on our CV we’ll be in a stronger position to bid for other major public contracts.”
Alex added: “Dealing with Mercury Engineering has been like a breath of fresh air. You would expect them to be planned and organised but it is more than that, really – they do exactly what they say they are going to do. Every detail is taken care of before work begins on-site and it makes the whole thing work more efficiently.”
Ed McIntyre, of Mercury Engineering, said: “Ventrac are a natural fit for this contract. They have the skills, expertise and professionalism we are looking for. It is critical to the success of this project that we have suppliers we can trust to deliver on time, every time.
“As one of the key partners on this development, Mercury Engineering is committed to using local suppliers wherever possible.
“It’s essential that this project adds value for local people and I’m confident that Ventrac is the first of many to be involved.”
Already Ventrac have recruited six members of staff to deal with the new works. It is anticipated that as the contract moves forward Ventrac will be creating an additional fourteen new posts. These jobs will include manufacturing trainees, experienced fitters, labourers and back office staff.
Glasgow South West Regeneration Agency will provide Ventrac with recruitment support for their new team and people can register for jobs at the New South Glasgow Hospital recruitment portal.
To find out more about employment opportunities at the New South Glasgow Hospital register with Glasgow South West Regeneration Agency at www.nsghjobs.com
To find out more about work packages that will be coming on stream please register your interest at www.nsghproject.com
Photography available from Caron Dunlop, Glasgow South West Regeneration Agency 0141 445 4554 or contact caron.dunlop@gswra.co.uk
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