Land deal allows for Oliver Valves expansion
CHESHIRE manufacturer Oliver Valves plans to expand on a 17-acre plot it has bought next to its Knutsford base.
The company, which makes valves and equipment for the global oil and gas industry, has exchanged contracts with Cheshire East Council for the site at Parkgate Industrial Estate.
The value of the deal was not disclosed.
In a statment the business said it was now considering options for the development of the site which includes consolidating its 12 factory units on the estate.
The investment follows a 56% rise in sale to £65.5m in 2012. It took on a 47,000 sq ft manufacturing facility in Knutsford last year and has since invested in a new R&D facility and a 5,000 sq ft distribution centre, also at Parkgate. The company, which employs 350 people in Knutsford, is now targeting turnover of £100m within the next 12 to 18 months.
Chairman Michael Oliver said: “We’ve been manufacturing valves in Cheshire for more than 30 years and we’re proud that products designed and made here are a feature of major energy projects all over the world. We’re committed to our future in Knutsford and this acquisition will ensure we have the room to expand the business organically as we pursue our ambitious growth targets. We look forward to bringing forward proposals in due course.”
Councillor Michael Jones Leader Cheshire East Council said “We are delighted that we have been able to accommodate the long term future and expansion plans of such a key employer which retains and creates new skilled employment opportunities within Cheshire East.”
The transaction was handled by Darran Lawless, managing director of the council’s new development company – East Cheshire Engine of the North.
