A TOWN was celebrating today after plans were announced to create 200 new white-collar jobs.

Accountancy firm Latham, Crossley and Davis are hoping to build a £3 million extension to their headquarters in Chorley.

If the plan gets off the ground, the financial specialists aim to take on about 150 extra white collar workers. And the Audit Commission, who share LCD's headquarters in St Thomas Road, are aiming to increase their workforce by another 50.

Plans have been submitted to Chorley Council following lengthy talks with town hall chiefs.

If the planning committee approve the scheme, the building would take around 18 months to complete and the extra jobs would be created over the next four years. Chorley's deputy council leader and economic development chairman Lindsay Hoyle said: "The planning application is a major vote of confidence in Chorley by Latham, Crossley and Davis.

"Their proposed £3 million plus investment and high profile can only add to Chorley's growing reputation as a superb place to live, work and invest in.

"It is good news, not just for the council, but also for local people.

"Town centre shops and businesses will benefit from the extra customers the expansion will bring through the new jobs created."

Keith Seeley, a managing partner with the company, said: "Major clients are sometimes surprised that we chose Chorley for our headquarters.

"The reasons, however, are quite simple. Not only is it well located, easily accessible and comparatively low cost, but Chorley has a council that encourages investment."

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