A 95-year-old Huddersfield sawmiller and timber merchant has been completely overhauled in a £250,000 investment since being taken over by Halifax-based James Chambers (Timber Merchants) Ltd.

To mark the relaunch of Garrards (Huddersfield) Ltd, an open weekend will be held on February 21-22, for customers and prospective clients.

The business was bought by James Chambers in March 2002 for an undisclosed sum. The first stage of development at Garrards has involved new external and internal racking; two lorries and a pick-up truck; a front loader and sideloader; a new sales counter and office suite above; plus signage and staff clothing.

In addition, new import arrangements have been organised to mirror James Chambers’ set-up. Softwood, 80% of which comes from Siberia, is imported from Russian mills instead of the previous Scandinavian operation.

Sean Colleran, director, said; “What we are trying to do over there is mirror image what we are doing in Halifax. We want to put it on the map and make it as successful as we can.”

&#8220What we are trying to do at Garrards in Huddersfield is mirror image what we are doing in Halifax. We want to put it on the map and make it as successful as we can”

Sean Colleran, James Chambers director

Mr Colleran said the business was aiming at the “top end” of the market. While most of the trade will be in redwood, hardwood sales will also be built up. About £250,000 worth of timber is currently stocked at the branch, managed by Paul Emmett.

Garrards current turnover is below £1m but the company intends to boost this within a short time to reach the £3.5-4m turnover of the Halifax branch.

James Chambers spent almost £500,000 last year upgrading its Halifax milling operation. An overhaul of the Huddersfield mill is earmarked for the future.