A HISTORIC Kidderminster site is to be transformed into a major new industrial and business development.

Developers Graftongate and Highcross are behind the plan for the site formerly owned by Midlands carpet manufacturer Brinton's.

Coun Stephen Clee, leader of Wyre Forest District Council; Steve Singleton, from the council's strategy unit, and Brinton's chairman Michael Brinton were present at the start of building work on the site, off the A451 Minster Road.

To mark the occasion, historic iron gates into the site - built to commemorate 100 years of carpet manufacturing from 1783 to 1883 - were handed back by the developers and simultaneously gifted by Mr Brinton to the council to put up as a local feature in the town.

The new development, named Finepoint, will provide more than 300,000 sq ft of business space.

The first phase is being built speculatively and will consist of 10 units ranging from 5,600 sq ft to 33,000 sq ft, available in spring 2007.

The remainder of the site is available for purpose-built units to the occupier's specific requirements.

GVA Grimley and M3 are agents on the scheme.

Graftongate Developments and Highcross are undertaking the scheme to provide "much needed new accommodation" in Kidderminster. They expect that it will appeal to the expanding local and regional businesses, as well as attracting jobs to the town.

Henry Angell-James, of Graftongate, said: "This is the largest new industrial development in Kidderminster for many years and we believe it will provide a real boost for the local economy and jobs."

Chris Mills, of Highcross, said: "We have made a large investment into Kidderminster and handing back the Brinton's gates is a symbol of our commitment to the town."