Clear Futures targets local businesses to help transform Bolton

Clear Futures – a strategic infrastructure and construction partnership with Bolton Council, – is offering local SME's the opportunity to deliver facilities management, construction and support services across the Council's property estate through Robertson, the partnerships FM and construction delivery partner.

Robertson – one of the largest family-owned facilities and construction management businesses in the UK – wants to 'Boost Bolton Locally' by working with businesses in the town and surrounding areas in its provision of facilities management, estates management, asset, construction & project management services to support the council's ambitious Bolton 2030 vision.

Rob Holt, Group Director, Strategic Services at Robertson, said: "To help Bolton achieve its full potential, it is essential that local businesses from the community have the opportunity to deliver work locally.

"We are looking for all local businesses' including Social Enterprises, Start Ups, and growth businesses across a wide range of sectors to help deliver excellent services and leave a positive lasting legacy in the Bolton area in support of Bolton Council's goals of 'economic and inclusive growth for all'. Having established a strong relationship with the council now is the right time to reach out to local businesses to use their expertise and provide them with the relevant training and development tools so they can be in a position where they can be competing for these opportunities at a level playing field.

"It is essential to the success of the Clear Futures framework that we help build capabilities in the local supply chain. In turn, the economic value of projects, such as job creation and service provision, stays within the region where it is being delivered.

Robertson will deliver a series of complimentary workshops and 'toolbox talks' aimed at developing SME's capabilities and removing barriers to work as part of its 'Boost Bolton Locally' pledge.

The initiative starts in December with an open day for all local businesses, where they can drop in, speak to Robertson staff, view the exciting projects happening around Bolton and register their interest in future training and development opportunities.

As part of the free training that Robertson will be delivering, businesses will be able to learn about bids & responding to tenders, managing health & safety, asbestos awareness, sustainable businesses, environment management and more.

Bolton Council's leader, Cllr David Greenhalgh, said:

"As a council, we are responsible for a diverse property portfolio ranging from primary schools to listed buildings.

"We want contracts to go to local firms to support our local economy, so I'd urge Bolton SMEs to look at the many exciting opportunities for us to work together through Clear Futures .

"Developing skills and expertise in our local businesses, and boosting the areas' supply chain, are essential parts of our Bolton 2030 vision."

Clear Futures focuses on developing long-term solutions to sustainability challenges, including sustainable housing, the circular economy and a range of sustainable community infrastructure.

The open day will take place on Monday 2nd December 2019 between 1pm and 6pm at the Lancaster Suite in Bolton Town Hall.