Historic North West construction firm slumps into administration

One of the North West’s oldest and best known construction  firms has slumped into administration.

Warrington based contractor Harry Fairclough has gone into administration after more than 120 years in business.

One report claimed a winding up order was made against the business  last week.

The firm, which was founded in 1898, employs around 150 people.

The news was broken to staff on Thursday and many of them have gone onto social media to express their sadness.

The firm specialised in civil contracts but also had building division.

Last month Fairclough retained its place on the North West Construction Hub’s £120m low-value framework.

According to reports staff were sent home after they were told the news.

One manager told the Construction Enquirer: “Today is a sad day as Harry Fairclough closes its doors after 120 years of trading.

“It’s been a great business to work for and we are all heartbroken, as we know the board tried their hardest to resist insolvency.

“We are also mindful that the devastation cascades to many innocent suppliers, subcontractors and their families.”

Last year the firm made pre-tax profits of £118,000 and had a turnover of £38million.

The company also had an office in West Yorkshire.

In a statement on Twitter, the Civil Engineering Contractors Association North West said: “More terrible news for our industry, as Harry Fairclough has gone into administration.

“CECA NW is here to help find vacancies for staff.

“Let’s keep getting the message across – clients must increasingly recognise the pressures on contractors if they want their projects and the ones the public demands to be delivered.

“If more bona fide civils contractors like Harry Fairclough are pushed to closure, the only firms left for clients to use will be those without the accreditations and practices that keep our industry safe, innovative and effective.”