THE new high-tech Parkhill Business Centre in Burnley is now open for business with a high-profile tenant returning to East Lancashire to take more than half the available space.

The former Abbey National computer centre building has been completely refurbished by the Red Group to provide around 20,000 sq ft of high specification office accommodation.

Bradford-based Hallmark Cards, which closed down its Hambledon Studios operation in Altham with the loss of 300 jobs three years ago, has moved into 13,500 square feet of the property.

Red Group's managing director Martin Barlow said: "We are delighted to have such a prestigious tenant for our latest development and are now looking forward to completing it with the same speed and efficiency whilst maintaining our high levels of specification, tailored to meet the exact requirements of future tenants.

"I know the finished product will speak volumes when potential tenants see the impressive development we have created. Ideally, we would like to find a second tenant for the remaining 6,500 square feet, but we will consider splitting it up."

Mr Barlow also said that the former security lodge on the 30-acre site would also be extensively refurbished to create around 3,000 square feet of of office accommodation.

Set within 30 acres of countryside with good parking facilities, the centre is also close to the M65.

and the national motorway network.