Komatsu Forest have made the next steps following the commencement of building on their new site in Carlisle.

It was announced in January that a site near Carlisle airport was to become the UK headquarters of the worldwide forestry company.

The £3.5 million project has got underway with local company Cubby Construction leading the construction which has a planned opening date of August 4.

Komatsu have said that their new UK headquarters would bring 35 jobs to the area providing a boost to the local economy.

The company have announced the first of those 35 jobs with a local chartered accountant amongst Komatsu’s first new employees.

Financial accountant, Elliott Brown has joined the company from a local accountancy firm, where he was a senior chartered accountant.

When commenting on why he joined Komatsu Forest, Elliott said: “The prospect of working for a global company, based here in Carlisle, was something that really excited me.

News and Star: Elliot BrownElliot Brown (Image: Komatsu)“From a recent trip to Komatsu Forest’s headquarters in Sweden, the scale of the company we work for really hit home.

“The potential future growth of the business was a particular attraction, highlighted by the construction of our new multi-million-pound premises near the airport.

“From a recent visit, it was fantastic to see the scale of the building and see the plans and drawings come to life.

“It’s a very exciting time for the business, and everybody is looking forward to seeing the project transform into Komatsu's new site over the coming months.

“I have thoroughly enjoyed my introduction to Komatsu Forest and can’t wait to see the business grow from strength to strength in the coming years.”

Another new employee moving to Carlisle is Lana Andrews who has been appointed parts – procurement and systems coordinator.

Stephen Ballas, Managing Director at Komatsu Forest UK Ltd, said: “Our investment in a new facility demonstrates our commitment to providing a sustainable business for the future of our employees, customers, and Cumbria.

“This is an important time of change and growth for us, and it is essential that we have the right team on board to facilitate this.