Let’s go to pot – and create jobs!
Les Savory hopes his new company, launched today, (Mon Feb 1) will immediately go to pot – and create jobs throughout the region!
Work on the road network is a priority and potholes are high on his agenda.
It’s been revealed that UK roads are blighted by an estimated 1.3 million potholes – many caused by the severe winter. The RAC has called for action but local authorities face bills running into millions of pounds for repair work and many don’t have the manpower.
Now Infrasafe is coming to the rescue with a workforce of new recruits.
The company has brought construction recruitment and infrastructure services under one roof and will include rail safety, road services, building and minor works and environmental support such as graffiti removal, litter picking and fly tipping clearance. There will be a major expansion towards local authority contracts.
Infrasafe – based at Blaydon on Tyneside - has emerged as a recession-buster from Railsafe Systems which was launched fifteen years ago to concentrate on services to the rail network. Founder and chief executive Les Savory began work in a British Rail signal box as a 15-year-old school-leaver. His business now turns over £2m a year.
“There are signs that we are emerging from the recession and now is the time to diversify,” he said. “We have always been perceived as a rail only provider. However, our skills, experience and certifications allow us to operate across a range of private and public sectors and organisations.
“Our plan is to retrain, recruit and develop the business from today throughout the north. As far as our existing customers are concerned the change will be seamless. However, we are expanding into new markets and recruiting now for skilled trades people from bricklayers to electricians. We also provide general labour for everyday usage. Pot holes have got to be a priority.
“Infrasafe will provide operational, recruitment and training services to the rail, road, infrastructure and construction sectors.” In-house training to new recruits will be provided at the head office, Railsafe House, Whiteley Road, Blaydon. It’s not yet known how many jobs will be created although an announcement is expected within two weeks.
Rail services include taking possession of lengths of track from Network Rail for repairs, maintenance or renewal. This requires careful management and planning and highly trained on and off-site personnel.