Factory plan to create 100 jobs (From Worcester News)

Factory plan to create 100 jobs

9:10am Friday 14th September 2012 in News By Tom Edwards

An artist’s impression of the warehouse, where packaging for food including Mars chocolates would be made.

UP to 100 jobs are set to be created in Worcester – with a German leader in food packaging opening a new £8 million warehouse.

Spies Kunststoffe GmbH, based near Hanover, wants to expand into the UK for the first time in a purpose-built site off Woodbury Lane, Norton.

The company has struck a deal with developers to open up a manufacturing plant of up to 120,000 sq ft, which will create 50 to 70 temporary jobs in the construction phase alone.

Between 70 and 100 permanent jobs will be created if Wychavon District Council approves the plan.

The firm makes packaging for renowned food producers, most notably the plastic boxes used by Mars for the Celebrations range of chocolates.

A deal has been struck with Norton Parkway Developments Ltd, the land owners, about the project.

A spokesman said: “We are talking about an £8 million development and a significant number of jobs, including apprenticeships.

“The company wants to expand into the UK and is determined to help the local area by creating a sustainable development which boosts the economy.

“It’s all about jobs and growth.”

Talks have already been held with Worcestershire County Council over the proposals, and Wychavon District Council is due to receive a planning application in October.

It is then expected to come before the district’s planning committee early next year, and if it is approved, work on the site, which is expected to start straight away, will take around 18 months.

The plant will contain state-of-the-art machinery capable of creating plastic packaging for a range of food items.

Under the proposal, the warehouse would sit next to the recycling centre owned by EnviroSort.

Councillor Simon Geraghty, deputy leader of the county council and cabinet member responsible for the economy and infrastructure, said: “From an economic development point of view, we’re always happy to talk to potential investors looking to locate to the city or county – subject to a decision by the district council.”

Councillor Rob Adams, who represents the area, said: “I always support employment over housing – I look forward to seeing what people think.”

A public consultation event is being held tomorrow at Norton Parish Hall, Wadborough Road, Littleworth, from 10am to 5pm.

Residents will be able to talk to representatives from Spies Kunststoffe.