Bardsley's first move into region

The 70m-turnover group's office is at 2 Wellington Place and it described the move as "a strategic investment based on the brightening economic outlook".

It follows lucrative public sector contract wins with Bradford University and Yorbuild.

Adrian Rooney, the regional manager, said: "We're definitely seeing tentative signs of recovery in the construction market after two very tough years in the longest and deepest downturn since the 1930s.

"This is our first regional office and having a cross-Pennines presence gives us a fantastic opportunity to work with new clients and enhance the Bardsley name and reputation outside its traditional North West heartland."

Bardsley Construction was founded in Manchester in 1964 and has operated solely from the city until this foray into Yorkshire.