ST HELENS Council has given the go-ahead to plans for a new £7 million factory which it is hoped will create more than 120 jobs.

Polynorm Plastics UK Limited, of Eccles, submitted plans for 4,525 square metres of factory floor space with a further 6,655 square metre unit under a phase two project on the site in Washway Lane, next to Pilkington's transport depot.

The Dutch company, who produce plastic products for a wide-ranging number of companies in the car industry, have been in consultation with council economic development officers since last year about the development of the key site next to the East Lancs Road.

The proposed factory would occupy 66 per cent of the site and will be developed in two phases. Included in the plans are a landscaping project and associated car parking.

Council leader Mike Doyle said: "This is a very significant company with a worldwide reputation. They are a key supplier to the automobile industry. Their decision to site in St Helens underlines the town's growing attraction as a key development area with its mix of local skills and excellent infrastructure."

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