Jobs saved as historic firm acquires construction businesses
FOUR businesses within the William Anelay group have been sold to a London firm.
William Anelay Ltd went into administration earlier this month, but now companies under its umbrella have been saved after Vauxhall-based business the Szerelmey Group.
The London construction firm can trace its roots back to 1855, and has now bought associated businesses Lowery Roofing, Hare and Ransome Joinery, Anelay Building and Conservation North East, and Anelay Building and Conservation North West which has offices in Irlam, Greater Manchester.
50 staff will be safeguarded in the deal. It is hoped that it will enable the businesses to progress work on site and take on new projects which would see combined turnover rise to £12m.
Julian Pitts and Bob Maxwell of Begbies Traynor were appointed as joint administrators of William Anelay Ltd on 8 September. Its other group companies, including those being sold, were not initially affected.
126 jobs were made redundant at William Anelay.
Charles Anelay, the eighth generation of the founding family of William Anelay Ltd said: “This acquisition removes all the uncertainty and brings fresh stability to these businesses by securing jobs with traditional craft skills and providing continuity for our clients.
“As such, it is very good news for our staff, good news for York and our region, and the North West, and good news for the heritage restoration sector.”
William Anelay Ltd, which had been trading continuously since 1747 went into administration after its creditors rejected the offer of a company voluntary arrangement (CVA) as a potential way forward.
