FORREST has become a major player in the social housing sector across the north of England, in Wales and the South West, with its revenues reaching the £100 million mark for the first time this year.

Its principal activity is providing regeneration refurbishment, renewal and responsive maintenance services.

Forrest has notched 11 consecutive years of sales growth and now employs more than 500 people, 14 per cent of whom are apprentices or trainees.

The firm has continued an impressive record of “framework” wins, increasing the number of appointments to 72, giving Forrest unparalleled access to 170 registers providers and local authorities.

Forrest’s £70 million, 10-year partnership with local housing provider Bolton at Home is an example of the company’s commitment to collaborative working.

“We are delighted to have been shortlisted for this year’s ‘Business of the Year’ award category recognising our position as one of the top social housing contractors in the North of England,” said Forrest chief executive Lee McCarren.

“Bolton is a key geographic area for us where we have made significant investments including the relocation and extension of our head office last year.

“In addition, our solid partnership with Bolton at Home continues by successfully securing a 10-year capital improvement framework, resulting in apprenticeships for 21 young people in the local area.”

Other key Forrest clients based in the Greater Manchester area include Bolton Council, City West Housing Trust, Salix Homes and First Choice Homes.