AN £8-million contract to build the new Grimsby Leisure Centre is being opened up to companies in the area.

A special meet-the-buyer event with contract winner, global construction firm Interserve, is being hosted later this month as sub-contracting opportunities are explored.

Steve Croft, representing Localbuyer.biz, the Grimsby-based tendering portal working alongside the FTSE 250 listed company, said: “If you are in the construction industry this event is for you.

“Interserve is looking to meet with local companies to explore the possibility of sub-contracting opportunities.

“Essentially these events bring together local trade suppliers and contractors to explore opportunities to support the construction through sub-contracts. The objective where possible is to employ the services of local businesses rather than bringing in support from outside the area, thereby keeping the Humber pound circulating within our own Humber economy.

“The project requires a full and comprehensive range of construction industry professionals to deliver the fantastic new facility. Everything from groundwork and landscaping to main build trade and specialist internal fit-out will be required.

“In a nutshell you have got to be in it to win it, so don’t miss out on an opportunity to attend the event to discover more.”

It is the latest in a series of offers to the local trades, and comes on the back of North East Lincolnshire Council being rated eighth in the whole country for its small business procurement policy.

Mr Croft added: “We have hosted similar very successful events this year, which have seen a turnout of more than 200 local construction-related companies attending the presentation of the £40-million Shoreline contract (won by Forrest and Wates Living Space) and the £3-million Healing Academy new build extension (Jembuild).

This event will take place in Grimsby Auditorium’s main bar, on Thursday, September 18, from 4.30pm, with buffet and bar available.

To register your interest or for more information email steve@localbuyer.biz, call 07930 474321 or visit www.LocalBuyer.biz.