Loreburn Housing Association has this week confirmed it will renew its partnership with Ashleigh (Scotland) Construction Ltd with a view to completing its ambitious development programme in Dumfries and Galloway.

The working relationship which began in 2007 has led to the employment of a significant number of apprentices across the professional trades including plumbing, joinery and bricklaying.

To date, 44 skilled apprentices have qualified as a result of working on Loreburn's new housing projects. In addition, Ashleigh is supporting and training four more apprentices, who will complete full Construction Industry Training Board (CITB) certified courses and industry leading in-house company training.

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Michael Levack, Chief Executive of the Scottish Building Federation, welcomed the news. He said: "I am delighted to hear about the continuation of this strong working partnership. It is also encouraging to hear of companies that can provide apprenticeship opportunities especially in the current economic climate. Apprentices are the foundation of the Scottish Construction industry and must be encouraged, providing individuals with the chance to gain real trade qualifications and experience."

Loreburn's Convener, Iain Agnew commented: "I am delighted to see that our new housing programme is giving local young people the chance to gain real trades qualifications. These professional skills will benefit them throughout their lives, whatever they do, and will hopefully continue to benefit Dumfries & Galloway for many years to come.

"It is important for us to work in partnership with companies that offer a strong commitment to training and qualifications. Ashleigh is setting standards for the construction industry when it comes to quality and investing in training."

Ashleigh Managing Director, Alex Steel added: "Our partnership with Loreburn is a key part of our business. Our shared values on quality and investment in training are underlying factors that ensured our partnership has gone from strength to strength."

Ashleigh currently employs 70 apprentices.

(GK/KMcA)