THREE firms have signed new contracts with Wigan Council which is promising news for jobseekers in the borough.

The Wigan-based businesses have taken over maintenance work on behalf of the council following a competitive process that saw more than 40 companies bid for the contracts.

Councillors say it shows the authority’s commitment to working with local firms and securing jobs for local people. All three companies are committed to the council’s employment charter – a voluntary agreement that means companies employ residents from within Wigan Borough where possible.

The contracts are for maintenance work on the council’s buildings.

A Connolly will cover the Hindley area, CPEC will work in Leigh and Tyldesley and Truline will cover buildings in Wigan.

Councillor David Molyneux, deputy leader of Wigan Council and cabinet member for the economy, said: “The process to award these contracts was highly competitive. We had a significant number of applicants and they had to go through a rigorous evaluation.

“I’m delighted three Wigan companies came out on top. This reflects our aim to back local businesses and help the local economy as much as possible while still seeking a good deal for taxpayers.

“Not only is this great for these three firms, it is great for the wider local economy. It will have a positive impact on the supply chain in Wigan Borough.

“The charter has proved a great success and many local people have been recruited because of it. I’d love to see more local firms signing up.”

Clr Molyneux said he was particularly pleased to see the companies had committed to taking on local people and hoped the companies’ engagement would present exciting opportunities for those looking for work.

The contracts began on October 1 and will last for 30 months. NPS, the council’s consultant for construction-related work, has also signed the employment charter which has found work for over 50 people.

Further details from http://www.wigan.gov.uk/Business/Business-Support/EmploymentCharterLocalJobsforLocalPeople.aspx