Engineering firm to expand in Northampton bringing jobs boost

The company, which supplies large steel and concrete structures to clients including Network Rail and Transport for London, cited “a good skilled workforce” as one of the reasons for choosing the town for its expansion.

Following a large increase in commissions during the past few years, it sought much larger premises with further scope for expansion, and found what it was looking for in Northampton.

It has taken on premises in Jackdaw Close on the Crow Lane Industrial Estate, and is in negotiations with Northampton Borough Council regarding a nearby piece of land for further growth.

In addition to an initial £1.4 million investment in buildings and plant, it is expected that further investment in land, buildings and plant in the near term will exceed £2 million.

Kilnbridge already employs 25 workers based in Northampton, including some who had been made redundant by the company that had previously owned the factory.

With the planned expansion, the firm hopes to increase employment to around 90 employees on the two sites in total.

Managing director, Dermot McDermott, said: “Moving our fabrication business and facility from London to Northampton was a big decision, which required careful consideration.

“Having researched the location, we realised the benefits that being based in Northampton would bring to our business in terms of its geographical position, allowing us to service contracts in London, East Anglia and the Midlands.

“There is also a good skilled workforce in the area which is crucial to our industry and has proved its worth to our business already.”

The fabrication business has surged from a £3 million turnover in 2014 to an anticipated £12 million by the end of this financial year, and business is still increasing.

Cllr Tim Hadland, borough council cabinet member for regeneration, enterprise and planning, said: “We always welcome approaches from companies seeking to relocate here, particularly engineering firms which can contribute both to our economy and skills base.

“Northampton has a proud manufacturing tradition, and Kilnbridge is now part of that story, bringing new jobs and prosperity to the town.

“It is the latest in a string of companies which have recognised the advantages of our close proximity to both London and Birmingham, supported by unrivalled transport links.”