The construction firm responsible for the first phase of regeneration work at the former Escro Foundry on Rector Lane in Guisborough has reached out to support a local school.
Harris is building three retail units and two workshop buildings for Ryedale Estates Limited, and the firm was keen to help nearby Saint Paulinus Primary Catholic Voluntary Academy, which is based on The Avenue, by creating a modern storage unit for the school’s outdoor equipment.
The firm also organised for the children from the Academy to visit the site, and gave them an insight into the work involved with the £4 million construction contract. Site Manager, Marc Blackwell, also demonstrated to the children how to take levels and organise the construction process.
The Academy’s head teacher Mr Simon Geaves said: “I am both thrilled and delighted with the support we have had from Harris through the firm’s kind donation and installation of the new shed which will really make a difference to our school. The children will now be able to access various equipment and toys to help them at lunchtimes and in outdoor lessons. We are always keen to be a part of the wider community within the town of Guisborough and would like to take this opportunity to thank Harris for their generous support.”
Danny Mulqueen, Managing Director of Harris, said: “Living in Guisborough I was particularly keen to support the Academy. The closure of the Esco Foundry in 2014 was a major blow to the town, and Ryedale Estates’ investment in this site is excellent news for the regeneration of the area.
“Our project demonstrates the positive influence that a construction contract can have on an area. In addition to our work with the Academy, we have procured supplies and services from many local companies, including our architects, Stringer & Jones.”
The 31,000 sq.ft of retail buildings and the 28,700 sq. ft workshop form the first part of a major £24m mixed use development on the site of the 20 acre former foundry in Guisborough, known as Cleveland Gate. Ryedale Estates is also working in partnership with The Guisborough Estate and Avant Homes Bottom of Formto create a further 25,000 sq.ft of offices, 20 bungalows for the over-60s and 115 family homes.
Harris is on schedule to complete the retail element and workshop by August 2017.
