A NEW co-operative formed by disabled ex-employees of the ill-fated Remploy Ltd are appealing to industrial landlords in the city to give them a base for their new venture.

The York Disabled Workers Co-operative believes there may be empty premises in greater York which some landlords may see as a liability because of the tax on vacant premises, but which they could use as a wood product manufacturing unit.

John Wilson, senior co-ordinator and former stock controller with Remploy, said: “We could take the burden of these punitive rates from you simply by moving in – and perhaps we could discuss reasonable terms.”

Remploy in Redness Street, York was one of 28 factories closed by the company which provides employment for disabled people. The controversial closure two years ago meant 33 took voluntary redundancy, while 19 stayed as Remploy employees working mostly in charity shops, but also in other sectors in the city.

The co-operative has started a national campaign through the GMB Union to raise cash for its plans to form a woodwork operation and hopes to draw its workforce from former Remploy employees as well as other disabled people in the area.

It has already secured offers of free supplies of wood and equipment to set it up. Initially, there would be about eight people producing products such as rabbit hutches, fence panelling, bird tables, and dog kennels.

“But it all relies on getting the premises at a reasonable rent for the first two or three years of the venture,” said John who was the former deputy shop steward for the GMB Union who campaigned to keep the York Remploy plant open.

He said: “We are looking for a small factory of between 2,500 and 3,500 sq ft and are desperate for the help and support of the business community in York.

“Once we get going, we will be looking at marketing a range of new ethically produced natural products.”

If anyone is interested in helping they should phone John at 07779 336956 or email him at johnwilson2006@aol.com