Bosses of Telford & Wrekin Council today promised to do everything possible to give work to local companies and tradesmen as a way to help them beat the recession.

But they have stopped short of making a firm commitment on the exact percentage of local people who would be employed in major contracts.

It follows the recent announcement of multi-million proposals to redevelop Wellington and Telford Town Centre.

Nick Bradbury, an electrician from Shifnal, welcomed the decision to pump public money into big schemes as a way of kick-starting the local economy in the credit crunch.

He said it was a “fantastic opportunity” to give work to local people struggling due to the downturn in the construction industry, as well as giving youngsters the chance to have apprenticeships. 

“When contracts are issued by the council, I would like to see a clause stating that a certain percentage of local tradesmen are employed. And I would like to see a register of local tradesmen available to those who win contracts,” he said.

Councillor Andrew Eade, council leader, said: “We will do all that is practically possible to ensure local firms are involved in the regeneration process and to make sure borough residents benefit from any employment and training opportunities that arise.”

He said the council was involved in a Meet the Buyer event in Shrewsbury on Thursday for businesses to get all the information they needed to tender for public sector contracts.