Archive - Tuesday, 9 April 2002


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New jobs unveiled

MORE than 250 new jobs could be on the way to Stonehouse, following the announcement that a new multi-million pound business is moving to the town.

UK market leader UNITE took delivery of the keys to the former Gartners factory this week. The company expects to create 100 new jobs by the end of the year with potential growth for more than 250 in total.

The new Stroudwater Business Park base is expected to be fully operational by September 2002, when one modular building unit will roll out of the factory every 22 minutes.

Using a new automated manufacturing process developed in Sweden UNITE produces complete pre-fabricated furnished bedroom and bathroom modules for temporary workers and students.

The fast-track construction system is so highly efficient that quality control is not necessary. The modules are pre-fabricated in the factory then delivered to the site. They can be stacked three high in central city areas where house prices can force low income students and key workers out of the market.

Stroud MP David Drew was instrumental in bringing UNITE to Stonehouse along with Stroud District Council and Gloucestershire First.

"The UNITE group is a company with a growing reputation in the provision of student accommodation," he said. "This initiative represents the best endeavours of partnership and I thank everyone who has made it possible."

When the factory is fully operational it will have the capacity to produce 5,000 units a year.