Kidderminster partnership sees new force in metal machinery
Thomas Vale Construction and international machine tool company Amada UK have joined forces to deliver an extensive £5 million project at Amada's Kidderminster-based UK customer facility which will see it become a fully interactive technical centre before the end of 2013.
Thomas Vale Construction and international machine tool company Amada UK have joined forces to deliver an extensive £5 million project at Amada's Kidderminster-based UK customer facility which will see it become a fully interactive technical centre before the end of 2013.
The redevelopment is set to significantly enhance the experience of the sheet metal machinery offered to its UK customers and international visitors to the centre; with expanded showrooms, enhanced meeting areas and interactive facilities for both software and tooling; showcasing the latest technologies within a welcoming and comfortable environment that will be conducive to knowledge-sharing of these cutting-edge machines.
First established in 1972 in Pensnett, the company opened the distinctive 'Machine Tool Plaza' in Spennells Valley Road, Kidderminster in 1986. Amada UK now employs 144 people and has an apprenticeship scheme with 12 young engineers.
Alan Parrott, managing director of Amada UK, said: "This is a significant year in Amada UK's history. It was precisely 40 years ago that Amada Co, Japan first created a UK subsidiary. Now, the old saying that 'life begins at 40' has great relevance as we look to underpin a very successful trading period with an intensive investment plan in support of new and existing customers alike.
"Working with a contractor like Thomas Vale ensures that we are maximising our contribution to local economic sustainability alongside their detailed knowledge of both Amada UK and the immediate local area."
Tony Hyde, managing director of Thomas Vale, added: "Being given the opportunity to work with Amada UK means that we are able to marry together both businesses cultures and vision to help deliver a highly innovative and environmentally sustainable redevelopment that will provide their business with a sound base for years to come."
Once complete, the newly refurbished facility will be extremely eco-friendly, boasting a minimal carbon footprint by utilising innovative sustainability techniques in lighting, heating, ventilation and insulation.
As a result of Wyre Forest District Council recently adopting a Local Development Order for the South Kidderminster Enterprise Park, this project does not require a planning application. The Order came into effect on the August 13 and it will remain in operation for three years.
The Order is designed to simplify the planning process to provide an incentive to businesses to locate within the district and provide a boost to the local economy.
Thomas Vale is part of the Bouygues Bâtiment International group. The business provides construction-led solutions for public and private sector partners, with regional operational centres in Worcestershire, Staffordshire, Stoke-on-Trent, Birmingham and Wolverhampton.
