A rapidly expanding construction industry business directory is to help subcontractors and out-of-work tradesmen find employment by adding a new section to the website.

Plant Hire Directory has generated more than 500 listings from businesses, including skip hire companies, landscape gardeners and haulage firms, in the six months since its launch.

And while founder and MD Jason Hagan wants to continue expanding the listings side of the business, he is hoping the new section will improve recruitment prospects for plumbers, electricians, bricklayers and other construction industry professionals.

Individuals will be able to list their experience and contact details for £1.99 per month on the new section when it launches in February.

Jason Hagan said: "Having worked in the industry for almost 20 years - through two recessions - I know how hard it can be to find work, particularly in the tough economic times.

"The job market is going to become even more competitive in 2011 so we have added the recruitment section to give people an edge when they're looking for work.

"The site is proving to be very popular and many businesses are using it to find local suppliers quickly.

"The same companies will now be able to find someone to help them out in the short or long term, without incurring any recruitment costs."

In a further development, bosses are also planning to add a section for construction companies to find information on public and private sector tenders.

The site is currently on course to hit £60000 turnover in its first year, and Jason Hagan aims to have 35-40000 suppliers listed on the site, before launching similar directories in Europe and North America.