It is reported that a Bolton steel firm's contract on one of London's tallest buildings is worth GBP 80 million and bosses say it will bring job security to hundreds of workers for 2013.

Watson Steel Construction, based in Lostock, is making 18,000 tonnes of structural steelwork for the Leadenhall building, nicknamed the Cheesegrater.

The 47 storey wedge shaped tower is being built near the famous Lloyds of London building in the City and will be 737 feet high when complete.

Much of the steelwork will be on the outside of the building and visible to pedestrians and neighboring buildings.

Mr Alex Harper, a Watson project manager, said that the Cheesegrater contract was providing valuable work to Watson workers and others suppliers in the Bolton area.

For example, the firm covers its finished steelwork in special coverings made by Leighs Paint.

Mr Watson said that the work will provide employment to 200 workers until 2014. It comes after Watsons' wide range of stadia and bridge contracts at the London Olympic site.

These included steelwork for the main arena and velodrome and towers for a landmark cable car crossing the River Thames.

Source - The Bolton News

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