BUSINESS leaders today revealed that thousands of new jobs had been created across East Lancashire since the opening of the new M65 extension.

Tens of millions of pounds had also been invested in the area since the motorway linked the district to the rest of the North West's motorway network.

Just six months after the new road opened, the economic benefits of being connected to the national motorway network are being felt throughout the area.

Huge investment is being ploughed into business parks and industrial estates along the M65 corridor by companies moving into the area and by existing firms expanding on to new sites.

And economic development chiefs say the boom is set to continue.

"The M65 extension has made a significant impact on East Lancashire's economy," said Liz Demaison of East Lancashire Promotions Partnership, set up by local councils to promote the area as a business location.

"We have seen an increase in inquiries from potential investors and in the number of companies moving into the area. There is also a significant number of existing companies who are reinvesting and expanding in East Lancashire." Compared with other parts of the North West, the cost of developing sites in East Lancashire is relatively cheap. With the area now just a few minutes drive from the M6 it is seen as a prime location.

As well as major names including Rectella and Cornwell Parker being attracted into the area - and bringing more than 550 jobs between them - dozens of expanding East Lancashire companies are themselves moving into bigger premises alongside the M65 corridor.

Recent announcements have included a new building for Nield Distribution at Altham, a purpose-built factory for Swedish-owned Camfil, in Haslingden, and a new site for Weltonhurst, at Roman Road in Blackburn.

Overseas investors have also been attracted to the area to set up UK operations. Canadian wallpaper border firm Excellpak and American computer firm YARC have both opened factories in Blackburn and Japanese car component firm Piolax has set up a base in Burnley.

Chartered surveyors Trevor Dawson & Co have reported they have just passed the £25 million mark for work on design and build projects for clients on sites along the M65 corridor.

"What is particularly encouraging is the size of the transactions," said Caroline James, a partner in the Blackburn-based firm. "These deals have underpinned each of the successful business parks on the M65 corridor."

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