The Rushden Echo, 3rd November 1961, transcribed by Jim Hollis

Expansion go-ahead at factory

The new unit - picture taken in 2007

A seven-year wait for development has ended for the Rushden shoe factory of R. Tarry and Co. Ltd. At last it has received approval for plans for a new closing factory and offices in Duck Street.

It was seven years ago that the firm started to think about expanding, and having a new building on nearby land. But acquiring a site and having plans passed by the planning authorities sometimes can be a very long and complicated business.

Final approval of plans was given by Rushden Urban Council last week, and a demolition team moved in to pull down a house on the site and leave the area clear for building.

Orders

The new factory is expected to be opened in about nine months’ time, and it is estimated that between 70 and 100 girls will be employed there.

Meanwhile the firm is continuing with home and export orders in its existing premises and receiving plenty of business.

On Friday a thousand pairs of shoes were despatched to the West Indies. Of the higher grades, with barrelled heels so popular with the West Indians, they are going mainly to San Fernando, Port of Spain.