A tree, vegetation and landscape management services business is aiming to celebrate its 25th anniversary next year with further growth after investing in a new machine.
Beechwood Trees and Landscapes Ltd in Brinklow Road, Binley, Coventry, provides a wide range of arboriculture and landscape services for domestic and commercial customers including local authorities.
The business, which was set-up in 1998 by managing director Simon Rotheram, is continually investing in new machinery and is in regular contact with Adam Plumb from the Coventry and Warwickshire Local Enterprise Partnership (CWLEP) Growth Hub.
When Simon wanted to buy a Force tracked machine to take branches from trees and convert them into wood chippings to use for biomass energy supply, he contacted Adam to find out if there was any funding available.
Adam helped Beechwood Trees and Landscapes Ltd to apply to Coventry City Council’s Investment Fund, which is funded through the European Regional Development Fund.
Simon was successful in his application and received twenty per cent of the total cost of the machine which cost nearly £43,000.
He said this new machine would help the innovative business with its expansion plans in 2023.
“This will open up new areas of work because we can use this machine to operate in hard to reach woodland where having the right machinery is essential,” Simon said.
“There is more demand for biomass energy as more and more people and businesses are concerned about the environment.
“We have had grants in the past for training which has been very helpful in developing employees but this is the first time we have received funding to invest in equipment.
“Specialist equipment in our sector is expensive so receiving the grant from the Investment Fund was great.
“Business generally is pretty good and in 2023 we’re looking for further growth. We want to expand the landscaping side of the business and we have taken on a Business Development Manager and Landscape Manager because we see it as an area for expansion.”
Adam Plumb, account manager at the CWLEP Growth Hub, said it was great the new machine was going to have a major difference to Beechwood Trees and Landscapes Ltd.
He said: “Beechwood Trees & Landscapes is known for its expertise throughout the industry and it is fantastic they will be celebrating 25 years in business next year.
“It is always worth businesses whatever their sector getting in touch to find out if there is funding available to help with their growth plans – just like Simon.”
Caption: From the left, Kierandeep Bal (Coventry City Council), Adam Plumb (CWLEP Growth Hub) and Simon Rotheram (Beechwood Trees and Landscapes)