We'll raise the roof, pledges city company (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

We'll raise the roof, pledges city company

4:30am Tuesday 13th November 2007 in

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A timber merchant has started a new department that could generate £1 million in turnover over 12 months.

C R Taylor (Timber) Limited, which has headquarters in Denholme and a trade centre in Bradford, has introduced a dedicated roof truss department.

It will provide a design and manufacturing service aimed at the burgeoning demand for timber within domestic construction.

The department, headed by Paul Amphlett, executive director for engineered timber products, has secured contracts with a host of house-builders.

The company has invested £100,000 in new technology and expects to create five new jobs in the department in the next six months.

The 47-year-old firm is on course to record a six per cent increase in turnover to a predicted £8.2 million, despite a difficult year for the industry.

Managing director Russell Tallant said: "It has been a tough year with the market affected by a significant hike in the price of timber due to supply shortages and an awful summer for construction in general. "However we've stayed ahead of the game by significantly increasing stock levels and sourcing new markets for supply.

"We've also responded by ramping up the services we can offer with the new roof truss department providing a comprehensive bespoke design service for developments of all sizes backed up by the ability to supply promptly and cost effectively. Our aim is to generate £500,000 in the first year but initial interest suggests it will be double that.

"The new department has made a significant six figure investment in computerised cutting technology as well as a 21 metre Birch table press with truss set facility. Both pieces of equipment are designed to improve accuracy and speed in the manufacturing process, enabling us to provide the service our customers expect. We've reacted to the rapid growth in the use of timber in construction by introducing these new aspects to our business."

C R Taylor (Timber) Ltd operates from a Station Road, Denholme as well as a site in Thornton Road, Bradford, employing 70 people.