News: ENGIE replaces Fortem on £60m Rotherham contract

Energy and services specialist ENGIE has been appointed to provide a £60m repairs and maintenance service on behalf of Rotherham Council.

The contract, which begins on 1st April 2020, will see ENGIE provide responsive repairs, adaptations, void works and estate management services to 9,800 homes across the south of the borough. In addition, ENGIE will also provide gas, mechanical and electrical maintenance work and a number of capital improvement schemes across the wider Rotherham area.

Rothbiz reported in February that the contracts were up for renewal.

Mears will continue as the main contractor delivering services in the north of the borough, as it has for the past nine and half years. ENGIE has been appointed as the new main contractor in the south of the borough, which is currently held by Fortem. Both contractors will provide a repairs service, make empty properties ready to be re-let, a caretaking service and making adaptations to homes when required.

The contract will begin with an initial duration of five years, which would be extended to a further five years dependent on high performance.

It is expected that the work programme will create more than 100 apprenticeships for local people, over the ten-year period, as well as 40 new jobs and more than 90 work experience placements for young people. ENGIE has also committed to a number of engagement opportunities with local schools, colleges and universities.

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Martin Smithurst, Divisional Chief Operating Officer at ENGIE UK, said: "We are very pleased to have been chosen to form this exciting partnership with Rotherham Council. We have a proven track record of providing an excellent repairs and maintenance service, as well as helping our partners address their housing, social value and climate emergency-related priorities, and I'm sure that this programme will be no different.

"ENGIE has a long history of working within the borough, so it's great that we can continue to do that through this partnership. We look forward to working with our partners for many more years to come to create, improve and maintain homes and places across Rotherham."

Councillor Dominic Beck, Cabinet Member for Housing at Rotherham Council, added: "The repairs and maintenance delivery providers we appoint are extremely important and I am confident we have recruited an excellent partner in ENGIE with a strong track record.

"We are delighted to award one of the Council's housing repairs and maintenance contracts to a company that has shown they have the highest standards of service delivery which in turn will mean our tenants enjoy high quality accommodation. Another key factor in the tender process was that the successful companies must demonstrate how they will add social value to the community.

"We want to work with companies that give back to the communities that they work in, who promote a borough where people can grow, flourish and prosper, and strengthen the skills of the local workforce and support people into jobs."

Mears staff will continue as they are. Staff working on the current Fortem contract will be transferred under TUPE arrangements to Engie. When the new contract starts it is expected that staff will stay on existing or similar terms.

Mears website
ENGIE website

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News: £1m training academy opening in Rotherham

A specialist training centre that is set to provide repairs and maintenance skills to people across the north of England will open in the heart of Rotherham later this month.

Property solutions provider Fortem has invested £1m into the Northern 4Life Academy, where it will train more than 2,500 individuals each year, including more than 300 members of local communities in Rotherham and across the north of England.

The new centre is part of Fortem's "growing our own" initiative, through which it recruits individuals based on their attitudes and behaviours, and then provides the training and support they need to build long-term careers with the organisation.

In 2016 Willmott Dixon's property repairs and maintenance specialist Willmott Dixon Partnerships announced that it was changing its name to Fortem.

From a base at Templeborough, Fortem works with Rotherham Council to deliver a repairs and maintenance service to 10,500 homes in the areas of Wentworth South, Wentworth Valley, Rother Valley West and Rother Valley South. In 2010 the company secured the five and a half year contract worth £58m with possible extensions up to 2020.

Rothbiz reported in 2018 that Fortem was looking to establish an academy in Dinnington but the new site is also at Tembleborough.

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The training centre will feature professional repairs and maintenance training bays including multi-trade, wet trades, electrical, roofing, plumbing and fire prevention, as well as classrooms with industry leading technology.

This is the second academy launched by Fortem, which successfully opened its Midlands 4Life Academy in 2013. The Birmingham centre provided training to over 6,800 attendees last year, with more than half (52%) of the courses delivered by Fortem's own internal experts.

Ann-Marie Steele, Head of Academies & Learning at Fortem, said: "Our 4life Academies offer industry-leading training and play a key role in enabling Fortem, our clients and our supply chain to meet future service needs and continued growth. By thinking differently and challenging the way we deliver training and learning, we want to inspire people to achieve their full potential.

"A second Academy running alongside our existing one will enable us to deliver more training, to more people, reaching and leaving a legacy in even more of the communities we work in."

Andrew Exley, Managing Director of Scarbrook Plumbing and Heating Ltd and Scarbook Electrical Ltd, based in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, added: "Fortem's partnership approach can be best demonstrated by the support we received from the team at the organisation's Midlands 4Life Academy. It has not only delivered training courses to improve our staff, but also helped us find quality candidates for apprenticeships."

Fortem website

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News: Rotherham Council repairs contract up for renewal

The long term, multimillion pound contract to repair, maintain and invest in Rotherham Council's housing stock is up for renewal.

Tender documents show that the authority is looking to procure two service providers to partner with to deliver repairs, maintenance, compliance and investment works to properties plus communal areas, community centres, boiler houses and garages.

Given a value of £24m, the tender is broken down into two lots, one for North and one for South. The contract is set to start on April 1 2020 and run for five years.

Rotherham's current council housing stock of circa 20,500 dwellings is a mixture of low and medium rise accommodation, with a small amount of high rise stock. These include both traditional and non-traditional forms of construction.

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In 2010 the authority first went out to the private sector.

From a base at Templeborough, Fortem works with the Council to deliver a repairs and maintenance service to 10,500 homes in the areas of Wentworth South, Wentworth Valley, Rother Valley West and Rother Valley South.

The company, then known as Willmott Dixon's property repairs and maintenance specialist, Willmott Dixon Partnerships, secured the five and a half year contract worth £58m with possible extensions up to 2020.

Morrison Facilities Services began a £60.5m contract to maintain council properties in 2010 to repair and maintain 13,000 properties in Rotherham North, Rotherham South and Wentworth North. Mears, the UK's leading provider of social housing repairs and maintenance services, acquired the company in 2012.

Mears operates a national training centre inside Rotherham United's New York Stadium. Discussions have been held around Fortem creating a new academy and bringing additional jobs to the borough.

The deadline for submitting tenders for the new contract is February 14.

Mears website
Fortem website

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News: Council's jobs hope for Fortem

Rotherham Council bosses are hoping that the restructuring of one of its main housing contractors will lead to more jobs being created in the borough, despite around 20 staff currently at risk of redundancy.

In 2016 Willmott Dixon's property repairs and maintenance specialist Willmott Dixon Partnerships announced that it was changing its name to Fortem.

From a base at Templeborough, Fortem works with Rotherham Council to deliver a repairs and maintenance service to 10,500 homes in the areas of Wentworth South, Wentworth Valley, Rother Valley West and Rother Valley South.

In 2010 the company secured the five and a half year contract worth £58m with possible extensions up to 2020.

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Fortem recently announced that it was preparing to make around 20 of its Rotherham staff redundant. The redundancies are principally in administration and managerial roles and some of the work is to be transferred from Rotherham to the organisation's head office in Hitchin, Hertfordshire.

At the same time, discussions are ongoing around Fortem creating a new academy and bringing additional jobs to the borough.

The Improving Places Select Commission at Rotherham Council recently discussed the work of Fortem, along with fellow contractor, Mears.

Mark Nearney, housing contract services and development manager at Rotherham Council, updated the meeting on the announcement.

Nearney said: "Overall, in the package, there will be job creation from Fortem with the "Learning Academy for Life." The net figure is that there will be more jobs in Rotherham. Yes, it'll be different types but it'll be healthy, full time employment, but some of the admin work will move down to Hitchin. We'll be keen to make sure that that doesn't affect service delivery."

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Cllr. Dominic Beck, Cabinet Member for Housing at Rotherham Council, added: "We've paid a lot of attention to this. It is a large contractor of ours and we need to be managing them and what they propose to do with their redundancies.

"I've spoken to people at Fortem and there will be some really positive news around the academy that they will be establishing with Rotherham College down in Dinnington, which will create 13 brand new jobs and a further 20 jobs in Rotherham at what they are calling their Northern Support Hub to support other contracts that they have got in the North.

"They are obviously undergoing some restructuring nationally as an organisation and we do have a relationship with them that is challenging. We know what happens when a contract isn't managed well but we have challenging, professional relationships with Mears and Fortem where we can have these sorts of discussions.

"Our thoughts are with those in danger of losing their jobs but hopefully there will be some positive news as well and there is a possibility of some of those people being redeployed."

The local branch of the Unite union said that it was preparing for industrial action having approached Fortem over the redundancies only to be told that the union had been derecognised.

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News: Chamber welcomes two new patrons

Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber of Commerce has welcomed Fortem and Cannon PR as new patrons.

Cannon PR, which is headquartered on High Street, Rotherham was formed in 2011 by award-winning Public Relations professional Matthew Ridsdale. Since its inception, the company has delivered a comprehensive range of communications services aimed at helping businesses throughout South Yorkshire to grow. A member of the Public Relations Consultants Association, over the past six years Cannon PR has supported a wide range of businesses within the technology, professional services and food and drink sectors as well as being responsible for supporting business finance specialists Finance For Enterprise and the Sheffield City Region Launchpad Programme, responsible for helping new entrepreneurs to take their first steps in business.

Cannon PR has also played an active role in supporting a number of Chamber-led initiatives including the unique Gallery Town project, designed to stimulate regeneration within Rotherham's town centre, whilst company founder Matthew also sits on the Chamber's Member Representation Council, a role which he has held since 2012.

Matthew Ridsdale, director and founder of Cannon PR (pictured, right), said: "I've been proud to support the work of the Chamber for more than a decade and when I decided to launch Cannon PR in 2011, one of the very first calls I made was to the Chamber.

"It's been terrific to see the Chamber grow and evolve, particularly over the past eighteen months. Last year saw Cannon PR enjoy a significant period of growth and as a Rotherham-based business we are proud to support our local Chamber over the next twelve months.

"The Chamber of Commerce is an important organisation for local businesses, one which helps to provide support and representation and through Cannon PR's involvement we have also been able to use our skills and expertise to support a number of community led initiatives. For me, becoming a patron is about not only supporting the local business community but helping to create opportunities to build a stronger local economy."

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Fortem, sister company to construction giant Willmott Dixon, joined the Chamber in 2016 and since then the company has actively supported many Chamber initiatives, including the organisation’s annual awards event. The company is responsible for undertaking a full range of property solutions for a large number of valued clients across the housing, bluelight, public buildings, education and care sectors and counts Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council, Midland Heart and Orbit housing amongst its national client base.

The company employs over 160 people from its base at Templeborough, Rotherham and plays an active role in supporting a wide range of community initiatives, investing more than £1.2 million in community led projects during 2017. At the same time, the company actively works to create skilled jobs within the local economy, through its highly regarded apprenticeship programme.

Mick Williamson, managing director at Fortem said: "We first joined the Chamber in 2016 because we felt it was important to build stronger links with the local business community, enabling us to continue to invest in the communities we serve and creating opportunities to support others. Since then we've never looked back!

"Over the past twelve months alone, our work with the Chamber has helped us to create new jobs within the local economy, whilst also being able to play a greater role in the local community through our active volunteering programme. We see our role as a patron being very much about investing back into the communities we serve."

The addition of Fortem and Cannon PR bring the total number of patrons at Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber to 19 businesses including ASD Lighting, Gibson Booth, Westfield Health, Barnsley FC and Rotherham United FC.

Andrew Denniff, chief executive at Barnsley & Rotherham Chamber, said: "On behalf of everyone at the Chamber, I'd like to give a very warm welcome to our newest patrons, Fortem and Cannon PR. Both businesses have actively supported the Chamber for a number of years, and I’m sure they will both continue to play key roles in helping to strengthen and support our growing membership.

"Becoming a Chamber Patron is not only a commitment towards supporting the work of the Chamber, but also about illustrating how local businesses come together to support common interests such as playing an important role in the communities we serve as well as adding weight and gravitas to the role the Chamber plays in supporting businesses in both Barnsley and Rotherham."

BR Chamber website
Canon PR website
Fortem website

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News: Willmott Dixon to build Rotherham university campus

RNN Group has announced the appointment of Willmott Dixon as its chosen contractor for its brand new £12m campus, University Centre Rotherham (UCR).

The new centre on Doncaster Gate is expected to bring a wealth of education and training opportunities to the region, building upon their existing range of degrees, higher-level courses and professional training, and will offer a dedicated facility for university students with specialist teaching, study and exhibition spaces, a library, café and social areas.

The Sheffield City Region (SCR) Combined Authority has agreed to fund infrastructure works. A grant of £3.5m has been approved with the balance coming from RNN Group.

John Connolly, chief executive of the RNN Group, which is the parent organisation for Rotherham College and the University Centre Rotherham, said: "We are delighted to have taken a big step forward in delivering this fantastic project, which will offer so much to our region's students and employers. It will be a major boost for us in addressing the skills gaps that employers are expecting to see in the near future, as the economy continues to grow.

"As part of the Rotherham Plan 2025, the University Centre Rotherham will be an important factor in helping to bring additional investment and employment to the area, and will contribute to the regeneration of the town centre. We will continue to work with our university partners and key employers to extend the range of degrees and professional courses we can offer, to ensure our students have the right skills and qualifications to be part of that brighter future for the region.

"We are also pleased to be working with Willmott Dixon, as a contractor and employer with a clear commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

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Building work is set to begin over the summer and with completion in autumn 2018. The RNN Group has confirmed that it has completed a purchase from Rotherham Council for the land on the site where the former Victorian hospital at Doncaster Gate was controversially demolished.

The 35,500 sq ft campus building, designed by Bond Bryan, is close to the main Rotherham College campus. It can accommodate approximately 560 people on a typical term day but will be built with expansion in mind and teaching space for approximately 1,000 students.

Andrew Hurcomb, director for Willmott Dixon in Yorkshire, said: "As a local company based in Yorkshire with a strong track record of work in Rotherham, which includes the role of our sister company Fortem maintaining homes in the town, we are proud to have been appointed by the RNN Group to take forward its plans to create University Centre Rotherham. It will provide important skills that will benefit the local economy for years to come and we'll also build strong links with the university centre to encourage many of its students to choose a career in construction.

"Also, during the project, we will work closely with local companies in and around Rotherham to ensure as many as possible are involved with the building work."

Cllr. Chris Read, leader of Rotherham Council, added: "Having our own University Centre in Rotherham is a fantastic opportunity for local people to study at degree level. This is one of our "game changers" in the Rotherham Plan; to help local people gain higher level skills which will increase their employability. It will also help local employers to find the skilled staff they need."

With headquarters in Letchworth Garden City, Willmott Dixon recently reported that pre-tax profits had more than doubled to £28m in 2016 from a turnover of £1.2bn. Sister business, Fortem has a base at Templeborough in Rotherham where it provides maintenance services for council houses in the borough.

RNN Group website

Images: RNN Group / Bond Bryan

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News: Rotherham charity's new place of peace

A unique partnership between Rotherham Council and construction companies, Fortem and Mears, has played a key role in creating a new home for homelessness charity, Shiloh.

An official opening ceremony recently took place at the old Weighbridge building on Station Road, with Rotherham's Mayor Cllr Eve Rose Keenan also unveiling a special plaque commemorating Shiloh's 25 years serving the local community.

Moving from Sheffield Road to the council's former weighbridge at Masbrough, the facility will provide support to vulnerable people who are going through a difficult period in their lives, including homelessness, by providing them with the life skills needed to get back on their feet.

Meanwhile, the Big Lottery funding will enable Shiloh to expand its work, as well as help the organisation provide around 20,000 meals a year.

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John McDonnell, Chairman for Shiloh (pictured welcoming volunteers and guests), said: "The way that churches, individuals and businesses contributed in various ways to make sure the project was completed was fantastic. Even businesses who would normally be competitors, worked tirelessly together on the project. We asked a decorating company for some rollers and brushes and they sent in a team of decorators.

"RMBC staff left their PCs and desks, rolled up their sleeves to paint, clean and get the place ready. Then there was that lady, who day after day, jumped on a bus to Shiloh, tirelessly cleaning and cleaning everything. The Rotherham community are so kind hearted!"

Fortem and Mears work with Rotherham Council to deliver a repairs and maintenance service to homes across the borough.

Fortem undertook extensive works to the electrics, refurbished the toilet blocks and re-commissioned the heating system, including the installation of a new boiler.

David Coldwell, general manager of Fortem Rotherham, said: "Our work in the communities of Rotherham brings us in contact every day with those who are less fortunate. It has been a pleasure helping Shiloh update their new premises, which will enhance the wellbeing of the residents who use the building and provide a lifeline for those experiencing hardship."

Mears also undertook extensive building and structural works to help transform the premises.

Andrew Chambers, general manager of the Rotherham branch, said: "We are proud to have been part of the transformation of Shiloh's new premises and their continuing journey in supporting local people who find themselves in need.

"We have huge admiration for Shiloh's work and look forward to continuing our work through our partnership with the Council to leave a lasting legacy in the community."

Shiloh website

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News: Willmott Dixon Partnerships rebrands as Fortem

Willmott Dixon's property repairs and maintenance specialist Willmott Dixon Partnerships is changing its name to Fortem.

The Willmott Dixon Group is one of the UK's largest privately-owned construction, regeneration and support services companies. From a base at Templeborough, Willmott Dixon works with Rotherham Council to deliver a repairs and maintenance service to 10,500 homes in the areas of Wentworth South, Wentworth Valley, Rother Valley West and Rother Valley South.

In 2010 the company secured the five and a half year contract worth £58m with possible extensions up to 2020.

In February this year, the group announced its intention to find a new home for its Support Services business that includes Partnerships. After a process to identify a potential partner for both Willmott Dixon Partnerships and Willmott Dixon Energy Services, the group chief executive, Rick Willmott, said in August that "productive dialogue continues and a decision on the best way forward will be taken shortly."

The Hertfordshire headquartered firm has now rebranded the Partnerships business as "part of a strategy to provide the senior management team with greater operational autonomy as well as more freedom to design bespoke service offerings and grow the company outside its core social housing market." Energy Services will also be drawn into the Fortem brand.

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Fortem is a Latin word for strength and prudency, and is designed to be a welcoming and reassuring presence in the community, as its highly trained and qualified team of engineers arrive to carry out work that improves the immediate environment of residents and customers.

The company is also positioning itself to grow its specialist services in new markets where responsive and minor planned work on large real estate portfolios is business-critical.

Mick Williamson, managing director at Fortem, said: "As we focus on ensuring we support our existing clients in delivering the best service possible, the new name embodies our commitment to keep evolving as a successful business. We have strong ambitions for growth and this means that now is the right time to create a new stand-out brand to become recognised as a leader in property maintenance across all sectors, not just housing.

"Fortem reflects these aspirations by heralding a new era for our business as we continue to invest in ensuring we are "best in class" for our existing customers, while giving us flexibility to plan ahead for expansion with new customers."

The distinctive blue and grey branding is set to become a familiar site on Rotherham's roads.

For the 12 months to 31 December 2015, the group posted turnover at £1.33 billion, up from £1.26 billion in 2014 and an secured order book of over £1.5 billion. Turnover for support services was £151m, up from £143m in the previous year.

Willmott Dixon website

Images: Fortem

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