UK-based Rope and Sling Specialists (RSS) has opened its eighth facility—in Roborough, Plymouth.
Located at the Broadley Park Industrial Estate, the 5,000 sq ft (464.5 sq m) site joins six other lifting and rigging depots, and the recently acquired Gemmak Engineering business – the manufacturing division within the RSS engineering services department.
RSS worked closely with the developer, RJM Property & Development Consultants, to ensure that site was both fit for purpose now, but also able to accommodate what the company is hoping will be significant long-term demand in the region for engineering, hire and sales, initially upheld by Ministry of Defence (MoD) contracts.
Matthew Rogers, engineering services director, will initially lead the site, but RSS is recruiting for a dedicated depot manager. David Homeyard has been recruited as head of projects and programme for MoD work. A project coordinator and three engineers will complete the team.
RSS has also invested in a 60-tonne capacity tensile test bed and a wire rope press, both of which will be installed in March, as well as a boat – a Humber Defender RIB—that will be used for swift and safe delivery of personnel and small products to marine sites.
Rogers said: “The MoD is providing an immediate focal point for the business but we are strategically located to support the whole south-west region of the country. The marine industry is naturally of primary interest—Plymouth has a strong history in shipbuilding—and the geography generally will produce demand for our full range of lifting and rigging services. We will also leverage Gemmak’s engineering capabilities.”
