Stable maker's expansion to create new jobs

Specialist building manufacturer Causeway Coast Stables (CCS) at Macosquin, Coleraine is investing £297,000 with support from Invest Northern Ireland to increase sales of its innovative timber-framed stables, American style barns and other handmade wooden products to markets outside Northern Ireland.

CCS designs, manufactures and erects its timber-framed products to the specifications of customers. The expansion will create five new jobs over the next two years.

The company's expansion plan, which includes the construction of a new factory at Wattstown Business Park in Coleraine, was announced recently by Billy Nicholl, CCS Managing Director, and Kevin Helferty, Manager of Invest NI's North West Local Office (NWLO) in Londonderry.

Mr Nicholl, who formed the business in 1998 with wife Sharon, said: "We have identified significant export opportunities in the Republic of Ireland and Great Britain for our products, especially in the equestrian industry for our timber-framed stables. Although the Republic already accounts for 70 per cent of our business, we see scope for further growth there, now that we have a solid base in the market.

"Feedback from trade shows that we've attended recently, including a major exhibition for our sector in Birmingham, has been very positive and we would anticipate business being placed by new customers in Great Britain in the near future. It's also our intention to explore opportunities in Europe.

"Our modular stables are attracting attention because they combine quality with benefits that include low installation and maintenance costs. They can also be erected faster than conventional block-built structures.

"As a result of increasing demand for our products, we are currently working at full capacity. The new factory will enable us to increase production and to expand our stock levels which will enable us to maintain our reputation for a quick response to the requirements of customers. Invest NI has been very supportive and is working closely with us in the development of the business," he added.

Commenting on the CCS investment Mr Helferty said Invest NI's support had helped the company increase its capability in export markets by developing marketing skills and by strengthening its production through the construction of a purpose-built factory.

Invest NI has provided financial assistance of £55,000 towards the costs of the investment by Causeway Coast Stables. This includes a contribution towards the relocation costs of the business and assistance towards employee recruitment and marketing.

An experienced joiner, Mr Nicholl initially worked from his garage, designing and building garden sheds and other timber framed structures. In the first year of trading the company moved to the 2,000 sq ft workshop at Macosquin.

The new factory at Wattstown Business Park is expected to be in operation soon.

(SP/GB)