A MASSIVE £8 million is being invested in a landmark building in Bury to create the UKs most technologically-advanced offices.

More than 240 new jobs are promised for the distinctive blue-coloured former StormSeal headquarters which is undergoing a massive refurbishment.

And when work is completed, the Point Blue building will become a "hi-tech heaven" and feature the latest, state-of-the-art computer and telecommunications facilities.

The new owner of the Peel Way building, originally built in the early 1990s, is Bury businessman Mr Mark Bedward whose own company, Global Telecoms & Technology will take up residence in the revamped building soon. He has established a new venture, Point Blue Investments, which is behind the ambitious multi-million pound scheme.

He said: "We've acquired the blue building from a London property company. It has been unoccupied for three years and the building had been vandalised. Basically, we acquired four walls and a roof. We've been working on the refurbishment for six months and this is due to be completed within four weeks.

"We're creating the UK's most technically-advanced offices for new and growing businesses who can take advantage of amazing technology including telecommunications, IT, computers, data telecoms and CCTV. Every office will have a plasma TV and there will be category five and category six data cabling technology and wireless network.

"Every office will also have internet, broadband and webcams so that those who have an office can look at it in the evenings to make sure everything is safe and secure."

Mr Bedward's own telecoms firm is involved in installing all the hi-tech equipment. Point Blue Investments and Point Blue Developments are the companies behind the refurbishment and marketing of the building.

He added: "Initially, there's room for 20 businesses and we're looking to expand the 15,500 sq ft floorspace to 40,000 sq ft with the addition of a new wing which will culminate in accommodation for 60 businesses. There has been a lot of demand locally and already a lot of the current space has been taken before its even been advertised.

"That's why we need to move on the expansion and our architect is currently drawing up plans to take to the local authority to look for approval for the extension."

Commenting on the building, he continued: "It's a great location for businesses who want be noticed and a fabulous opportunity for companies who expect and want the best of everything in terms of all services being provided.

"We want this to be the first of many centres which will begin to roll out in other towns in the north west and different parts of the UK."