New Western Isles apprenticeships

New apprenticeships from building contracts 26/8/14

Five young people have been given apprenticeships newly created by island building firm CalMax Construction.

The training jobs - for a plumber, painter, bricklayer, joiner and plant operator - are part of the community benefit in their housing building contracts with Hebridean Housing Partnership (HHP).

CalMax are currently delivering 55 properties for HHP across five sites - in Stornoway, Lochs, Uig and Balivanich.

David Blaney, chair of HHP, said: “We are delighted to be able to deliver much needed opportunities for young people in the islands through our investment in new homes. We are also grateful to CalMax for responding so positively and for their commitment to helping our young people.”

Councillor Norman Macleod, HHP’s development spokesperson said: “These are difficult times for young people, particularly in the islands and we at HHP are committed to doing all that we can to help”.

HHP aims to build 61 homes across the Outer Hebrides by summer 2015 with £4 million from the Scottish Government and further funding from the Comhairle.

Calum Mackay of CalMax said: “CalMax are pleased to be able to offer apprenticeships to youngsters.

“This is a reflection of the contracts recently awarded to CalMax by HHP for the housing developments at Melbost Farm and Allt Na Broige.”