ENGINEERING firm Forth will unveil its new Precision Engineering Machine Shop at Maryport next week, building on its core services and capabilities – and creating five new jobs in the process.
Some £250,000 has been invested in transforming and fitting out this purpose-built facility at the company’s headquarters.
The move follows Forth’s acquisition of Workington-based HallPack and the recruitment drive prompted by Chapel Bank Engineering’s closure last month.
Projects Director Graham Cartwright said: “We’re bringing the entire HallPack team into this industry-leading workshop, tripling our floor space and installing new CNC machinery.
“It’s a significant investment that boosts production capacity, extends our capabilities and cements Forth as a one-stop, solutions-focused engineering partner for the nuclear, gas, oil and utilities sectors.
“We’re now focused on building on HallPack’s reputation for quality and value.”
Forth completed a 100 per cent buyout of HallPack’s share capital and assets in June.
To mark the completion of the works, a local VIP will officially open the new Machine Shop on Thursday 10 July.
There will be a barbecue between 10 am and 4 pm, and everyone – from local businesses to the wider community – is welcome.
Throughout the day, Forth technology will be on demonstration, and Sellafield’s Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) team will bring along some of their robots.
Community sports clubs, organisations and charities who have benefited from Forth’s support will also drop in to show their appreciation and meet the team. The BBC are also expected to visit and cover the launch.
The new workshop stands on the site of Forth’s very first test pond – a modest three-metre square tank that launched the business in its early days.
Precision engineering is all about designing, manufacturing and maintaining components to exceptionally tight tolerances.
Accuracy, consistency and meticulous attention to detail are critical so that even the most complex machinery operates flawlessly.
It underpins industries from aerospace and automotive to medical devices and telecommunications – where the slightest deviation can have serious consequences.
Managing Director Mark Telford said: “Our investment in people, products and services is an ongoing journey.
“We’re not afraid to take risks or tackle challenges head-on. Turning a redundant space into a fully functioning machine shop in just a few weeks has tested us, but by 10 July we’ll be ready for launch – ready to collaborate with our supply chain, deliver real value to our clients, and take the next step on Forth’s exciting growth journey.”
