More than 100 local subcontractors and suppliers have turned out in force at a recent Meet the Buyer event for the new Sandwell Aquatics Centre project.

Wates hosted the event with Sandwell Council, welcoming the businesses to learn more about the work packages available under the scheme.

The firm outlined the scope of the works that will be open to tender – including groundworks, external and landscaping works, mechanical and electrical packages, and internal finishing.

Alison Knight, Sandwell Council's executive director for neighbourhoods, said: "Sandwell Council is working closely with Wates to ensure that local supply chain companies benefit as much as possible from the wide range of opportunities that will become available throughout this project.

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"It was very encouraging to see so many representatives from so many businesses attending, eager to see how they can play a part in what will be an amazing facility for Sandwell.

"Involving these companies has the potential to boost the local economy and local communities by creating jobs and providing training opportunities."

John Carlin, regional managing director of Wates Construction Midlands, added: "We've been working closely with Sandwell Council to develop our construction programme and design for this new state-of-the-art facility.

"This was the next step, providing an opportunity to reach out to local contractors who wish to be part of the team to deliver this modern leisure and aquatics facility and it was fantastic to see so many turn out.

"Based locally ourselves, we understand how local supply chain opportunities can provide significant economic and social benefits to a community, acting as a force for good. We look forward to appointing the wider team and works getting underway soon."

Other organisations like Sandwell Leisure Trust, the Black Country LEP, the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) and Construction Line all delivered exhibitions at the event.

The plans for a new Aquatics Centre were approved by the Council's planning committee last month and ratified at a full Council meeting on 09 April.

(CM/JG)