An event designed to get 'up close' with local businesses and contractors is being held by a major housing association.

River Clyde Homes - which currently has multi-million pound contracts - is keen that local businesses have the opportunity to tender or sub contract for that work.

The event will be held in Port Glasgow Town Hall on Thursday 5 November, kicking off at 12 noon.

Lynne Carr, the Chief Executive of RCH, has welcomed the initiative, saying: "River Clyde Homes is committed to ensuring that local employment opportunities for apprentices and unemployed people are maximised through our contracts.


"It follows naturally that, where possible, local businesses have a real chance to bid for work."

The award of many RCH contracts is guided by European legislation and this is monitored to ensure compliance.

Companies tendering for work have to meet a raft of statutory obligations and criteria which can sometimes seem complicated.

The aim of the day is to explain to local contractors the process involved and the criteria local companies should expect to meet.

Local businesses will also have the opportunity to meet with some of the current major contractors to explore opportunities to sub-contract works.

Lynne Carr continued: "Obviously, because of the rigorous regulations involved we cannot guarantee work to any contractor, local or otherwise.

"What we can do however is give contractors a better understanding of those regulations. I hope that the end result will be that we will see more local companies tendering for work and that contracts can be awarded locally."

(GK/BMcC)