Pennine Aggregates Ltd - Buxton company builds strong foundations for future

When a family company based in High Peak for over 20 years needed new premises for its expanding business and to create new local jobs, it looked no further than the local council.

And it proved to be a sound business decision as working in partnership has helped Pennine Aggregates secure new premises at Waterswallows Lane and a grant of £138,000 for the development.

As a result, the company - which supplies sand and aggregate products to man national retailers as well as independent builders merchants across the country - is set to increase its operation by up to 50% in the next couple of years.

Since the company made its first approach to High Peak Borough Council a 'one team' approach offered support with every stage of the process from finding a suitable location and submitting a planning application through to identifying and successfully applying for funding.

Councillor Tony Kemp, Deputy Leader and Executive Councillor for Regeneration, said: "Pennine Aggregates is a real success story for Buxton so it's fantastic that we have been able to work productively with them to secure the space and the funding needed to enable them to expand.

"This family company's turnover is expected to double over the next couple of years and the number of people employed, which has already risen from two to 13 in the last seven years, is set to increase further to provide around 20 jobs by 2018.

"Thriving local firms make such a positive contribution to local employment and the economy which is why supporting businesses, by providing both the right sites and support and advice to help them grow, is a priority for the Council.

"I'm delighted that this approach has had such a great result in this case and would encourage any business, large or small, to get in touch with the Council for advice on how to grow your business and guidance and support through planning and regulatory processes."

Pennine Aggregates Director,Mark Dickinson, added: "Not only did the Council assist in our search for new premises, but it also provided invaluable information and support on the various funding opportunities available.

"We were provided with the help we needed to not only apply for, but to succeed in winning, valuable EU funding for our expansion project. This assistance not only provided the business with a suitable base to grow but also helped create many jobs and increased our purchasing levels with local suppliers."