RE:GEN Group launches new division after salvaging Tolent jobs

A property regeneration firm has expanded after saving more than 30 construction jobs following a contractor’s collapse.

RE:GEN Group has launched an asbestos management division after hiring 33 ex-Tolent workers.

Known as RE:GEN Solutions, the 24-strong staff venture is led by former Tolent employee Anthony Wade, with a further nine member’s of failed Gateshead builder’s roster joining the wider RE:GEN operation.

The rescue deal comes days after Sunderland-based Brims Construction revealed plans to salvage as many as 150 posts at Tolent’s former Teesside base.

It also follows RE:GEN Group’s switch to larger headquarters on Sunderland’s Doxford Park, with bosses saying the near 9000sq ft base provides the business – which improves and modernises social housing and new builds – sufficient space to maintain its growth.

Lee Francis, RE:GEN Group chief executive, said: “It’s been a busy couple of weeks with the office move, recruitment of new staff and the launch of a new business, but our proudest achievement has been our ability to act fast and save over 30 jobs for some of the best talent our region has to offer.”

Anthony, RE:GEN Solutions’ managing director, said he and his fellow ex-Tolent staff are “over the moon” at finding new employment.

He added: “The team were distraught, not knowing where the next mortgage payment would come from.

“But they’re now faced with more hope than they ever imagined.

“I’m really looking forward to establishing and growing RE:GEN Solutions, not only within the social housing sector, but all other types of industrial work.”