A BUILDING services company from Bridport has won a tender with Magna Housing Association.

AP Chant of Bridport secured a £1.5m annual contract for a third time to provide ongoing heating installation, servicing, repairs and upgrades to Magna’s 6,000 homes.

The deal will run from 2011-2015.

Managing director Ashley Chant said: “We are absolutely delighted to have won the contract with Magna for another four years.

“I know we were up against a number of other companies but we’re all delighted that AP Chant have secured this contract once again.

“Renewal of the contract is a reflection of the close working partnership formed with Magna over the last eight years.”

AP Chant was invited to re-tender for the contract late last year and was up against a number of other larger national companies. Yogesh Vadgama, Magna Housing Assoc-iation’s head of technical services, said: “AP Chant has consistently provided us with a quality service.

“The firm is really good at making arrangements to carry out the annual gas service to ensure our homes are safe.

“They also have excellent response times when attending to breakdowns and repairs.

“This new contract was tendered in accordance with EU procurement rules and guidance, and with residents of Magna Housing Association involved in the selection process.

“The tender submission from AP Chant provided the best value for money and a clear demonstration of how they would improve on their already quality service.”

In 1992 Ashley Chant started his business as a plumber based in Bridport.

Over the past 19 years the firm has developed and covers Dorset, Somerset, Devon, Wilt-shire and Hampshire.

It employs more than 100 staff.