QUARRY and concrete company Hanson UK is looking for new drivers at its Blackburn plant.

A sharp increase in activity after five years of decline is boosting the construction industry and increasing demand for the company’s products.

Now it is looking to take on 100 drivers nationwide as part of a major recruitment drive.

It is making a major investment in new tipper, mixer and articulated trucks and is looking for experienced drivers to join its team at Hanson Concrete on Greenbank Industrial Estate Greenbank Rd, in Whitebirk.

David Weeks, communications manager, said: “Sales volumes of our core products of aggregates, asphalt and ready-mixed concrete have picked up this year and we are now seeing sustained growth, fuelled by a big upturn in private sector house building and an improvement in general construction activity.

“Latest figures from the Mineral Products Association show that sales of aggregates and concrete are up by ten per cent in the third quarter of 2013 compared with the same period last year, which is great news following a painful and extended period of highly depressed markets. It looks like construction is turning the corner at last and we expect to see further improvements in the months and years ahead.”

Hanson is looking for qualified Cat C and Cat CE drivers to be based at sites across the North West, including its concrete plant in Blackburn.

Regional transport manager Tim Sage added: “We are looking for people who share our commitment to high levels of customer service.

“They will be rewarded with a permanent position which offers top rates of pay, performance bonuses and a benefits package that includes a generous pension scheme.”

Jobs details are available at www.hansonjobs.com.