A modular homes manufacturer has launched what is understood to be the first modular construction factory in the North West, leasing a 70,000 sq ft warehouse on Triumph Business Park in Speke.

Ideal Modular Homes has been set up by two Liverpool entrepreneurs, Luke Barnes and Graham Owens. Barnes was previously a design engineer before becoming a developer, while business partner Owens was a software engineer, running his own company developing operating systems for large corporations.

The factory in Speke, let from landlord Remstone, has a license to operate 24 hours a day, and will employ 150 staff on shifts to produce more than 10 units a week.

Currently the company has 15 staff based in the warehouse, including in-house architects and technicians advising clients on specifications.

Barnes confirmed that Ideal Modular Homes had secured its first contracts, and was set to start shortly manufacturing an order of 81 homes, and 58 apartments.