Lancashire firm scoops business award

LANCASHIRE-based ground improvement specialist Pennine has won the business award at the North West Regional Construction Awards 2009.

The awards, organised by The Centre for Construction Innovation at Salford University, celebrate the construction industry and showcase projects and working practices in the region.

Pennine, which became part of Balfour Beatty Ground Engineering in 2005, was recognised for the work completed by its manufacturing department.

During the judging period, Pennine manufactured seven new piling rigs and 40 vibroflots in response to an increase in sales from overseas customers.

In addition over the past 12 months, the 18-strong manufacturing team has implemented more innovative working practices which achieved a production increase of 270%.

Chris Gillibrand, manufacturing director at Pennine, said:”Receiving this award from Constructing Excellence is hugely satisfying – we knew we’d done well to achieve our ambitious improvement targets but to receive recognition from industry colleagues is doubly satisfying.”

Pennine employs 86 staff and has a turnover of £17.5m.