The Amphion Consortium, a leading exponent of innovative off-site construction, is hoping to sign up several timber frame manufacturers to replace the closed Torwood II factory at Ipswich.
Torwood II had supplied the consortium’s developments with the Tee-u-Tec timber construction system until it went into receivership on April 7 after experiencing “difficult trading conditions”.
Amphion, which specialises in social housing, said it “regretted” the closure and the proposed sale of Torwood’s Livingstone factory. It has secured the intellectual property rights of Tee-u-Tec and is speaking to several potential new suppliers, including one from overseas.
Amphion chairman Richard Finlinson said: “It does present us with difficulties but it does not mean the end of Amphion. The manufacturers we have been talking to have been extremely keen.”
He said Amphion had been aware for some time of Torwood’s trading difficulties and recognised the need to secure more than one supplier. He said some developments could be delayed and predicted a period of “reinvigoration” over the next six months.
Meanwhile, receivers have reported a good level of interest in the Torwood operation at Livingstone. A total of 14 parties have visited the production site and requested information from receivers Tom MacLennan and Kenny Craig of Tenon.
Mr MacLennan said a closing date for indicative offers was being set for the end of the month and a preferred bidder would be chosen shortly afterwards, with a view to the business being sold as a going concern.
He added: “Livingstone was and is profitable with a good level of throughput. Ipswich had a low throughput and a lot of production difficulties.”
