ONE of Scotland’s largest plant hire businesses has branched out into England, investing more than £1 million in acquiring a three-acre site on Chaddock Lane in Astley.

Jarvie Plant, which has eight depots in Scotland, will initially employ up to 10 staff at its new depot.

They will provide an extensive range of equipment, including telehandlers, dumpers, excavators, site accommodation, vehicles, generators and lighting.

A 14-metre telehandler has been hired from the facility by Scottish-based ground works contractor within days of Jarvie Plant's new plant equipment arriving on site.

Dave Ingleby, Jarvie Plant’s newly appointed north west regional operations manager, said: “The site we have acquired shows real commitment to the growth strategy of the business in establishing a presence south of the border.

“I am relishing the challenge of driving forward Jarvie’s first English depot and providing the same high quality plant and service commitment as we do in Scotland."

The new depot is part of Jarvie Plant’s wider growth strategy to increase the firm’s visibility among main contractors, civil contractors and house builders across the UK.