New premises transform area and create jobs

Leading ground engineering firm Van Elle are celebrating the official opening of new premises, after the redevelopment of a major site in the heart of the Kirkby.
Gloria De Piero opens the new Van Elle premises in KirkbyGloria De Piero opens the new Van Elle premises in Kirkby
Gloria De Piero opens the new Van Elle premises in Kirkby

Last year bosses at the firm’s HQ in Pinxton unveiled number of ambitious plans, including the development of the old Charcon Tunnels and Tarmac industrial site on Summit Close, Kirkby.

After investing over £1.5m, the development is now complete and includes brand new offices, a production facility and workshops which the say will help regenerate the area and lay the foundations for further growth.

The company has also revealed it has taken on over 30 new members of staff within the group at the same time as launching a substantial recruitment drive as part of its expansion plans.

The Kirkby site was officially opened by Ashfield MP Gloria De Piero, who was greeted by group chairman Michael Ellis, who founded the company in 1984 with his wife Joan.

The firm also briefed Ms De Piero on the latest developments surrounding the expansion and their plans going forward.

Following those discussions the MP is now writing to Ashfield District Council in a bid to resolve an ongoing issue over the purchase of the site.

Speaking after the visit, The PM said: “It was an absolute pleasure to officially open the new facilities.

“They have completely regenerated the area and transformed the old disused industrial site into a thriving hub, so I’m more than happy to write to the council to try to iron out a few contractual issues surrounding the original sale of the land.

“I told staff that I was proud to have a business like Van Elle in the constituency and it’s great to see local businesses like Van Elle going from strength to strength.”

She added: “I’m really pleased that Van Elle will also be attending my jobs fair on September 5th at the Festival Hall in Kirkby between 10am-3pm. All local people are welcome to attend.”