MALVERN'S success in attracting new business has continued with the announcement of plans to relocate by Worcester firm Pearl Floorings.

The carpet store has applied to Malvern Hills District Council to change the use of a workshop on the Six Ways Industrial Estate, Barnards Green, from light industrial warehouse to warehouse retail space, open to the public and trade.

Rosslyn Field, of MHDC's planning office, said: "This is located in a principal shopping and commercial area within Barnard's Green where change of use is acceptable in principle, subject to car parking."

Although the economic development team at the council said they did not target neighbouring towns in Worcestershire for new business, they were constantly working to attract firms to the district.

Officer Sarah Gordon said: "We do an awful lot of different things including business visits. We also carry out an annual business survey throughout the district - about 2,500 different businesses - which helps to form an annual business plan.

"There is also the Malvern Experience pack and the Platinum Awards - an annual event to promote what we think best and unique in the district in retail, technology, community groups to manufacturing."

She added: "Employment land shortages in Worcester means Malvern has become a consideration for many businesses looking to expand because of its proximity to the city."