Anlegg Vest Rebounds with New Tunneling Venture After Bankruptcy
Roy Hestetræet, former manager of the recently bankrupt Anlegg Vest AS, has launched a new company, Anlegg Vest Tunnel AS, taking approximately 20 former employees with him. The move comes after a challenging period for the construction firm, which faced financial difficulties and a subsequent bankruptcy filing.
Bankruptcy and Reconstruction Efforts
Anlegg Vest AS was initially placed under reconstruction in November 2025 due to a debt of six million kroner owed to the Skatteetaten (Norwegian Tax Administration). Bergens Tidende reported on the reconstruction efforts, highlighting the financial strain the company was under. Despite these efforts, the company ultimately declared bankruptcy.
A New Beginning: Anlegg Vest Tunnel AS
Following the bankruptcy, Hestetræet established Anlegg Vest Tunnel AS, focusing on tunneling projects. He confirmed that around 20 of the original 30 employees have joined the new venture. FriFagbevegelse reports that Hestetræet was encouraged by his employees to start anew, stating, “The employees gave me the courage to start again. We have not departed with death.”
Legal and Financial Considerations
Gunnar Haahjem, the bankruptcy administrator, confirmed that Hestetræet was legally permitted to start a new company as he does not have a bankruptcy quarantine. The approximately 20 million kroner in debt from the old Anlegg Vest remains with the previous company and does not transfer to Anlegg Vest Tunnel AS. Hestetræet stated that many suppliers are willing to continue working with the new company, although some have expressed dissatisfaction.
Employee Perspectives
Odd Søviknes, a machine operator and member of the Norwegian Workers’ Union, believes the number of employees transitioning to the new company is closer to ten, rather than the twenty reported by Hestetræet. Despite differing numbers, Søviknes acknowledged that the team is tired but motivated to continue working. FriFagbevegelse quoted Søviknes as saying, “We worked very hard to save Anlegg Vest. Now it’s time to keep the pressure up. We roll up our sleeves and turn on the fireplace.”
Company Details
Anlegg Vest Tunnel AS is registered with the Brønnøysund Register Centre (BRC) with organization number 936 859 984. Roy Hestetræet (born 1985) is the daily leader and chairman of the board, with sole procuration. BRC data indicates the company’s primary business activity is groundwork (Næringskode 43.120).
The industry reaction to the new start is mixed, with some entrepreneurs expressing support and others remaining skeptical.