LAND once identified for an extension to the former Michelin factory in Burnley could soon be home to 40 new workers - and travelling newts.

Blueprints have been unveiled by Metro Metals for four new industrial units just a stone’s throw from their current breakers yard in Widow Hill Road on the Heasandford Industrial Estate.

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Back in the 1970s the site was designated for extra capacity at the Michelin plant but the scheme was never progressed before the East Lancashire operation was shut down and moved to the Midlands in the 1990s.

Ever since then little has happened with the location, positioned to the north-west of Hagg’s Wood and behind Hycrome Aerospace, and covered in scrub grass and a small hardstanding.

But first the firm must convince borough planners that it can accommodate some potential tiny guests.

Just 50 metres away to the south-east is a pond housing great crested newts, a protected species.

Environmental consultants have designed a water feature and natural landscaping to the south-west corner of the proposed industrial estate and a ‘newt’ proof fence.

The old Michelin land is part of a biological heritage site and close to a similar designation for the River Don and Brun Valley.

Planning agent John Summers said: “The formation of a pond to contain and allow slow discharge of surface water, brings the benefit of a secure habitat for the newts and no rapid run-off to cause local flooding.

“The line of the newt fence is inside the development site, making a sanctuary for the newts.

“The introduction of the pond that will be always filled will give a guaranteed improvement on the current habitat and when the adjacent pond dries up as it does the newt is still safe.”

An estimated 40 jobs will be created once the industrial units, three smaller buildings to the west of the site and a larger space to the north, are eventually constructed.

Mr Summers added: “It is our intention to form new industrial units on a site designated for this purpose many years ago and to integrate with a properly constructed landscaped zone that will be wildlife friendly and both aesthically pleasing along with environmental benefits.”

Several new firms have switched to the former Michelin site as part of the new aerospace supplier village being promoted there and supported by the Local Growth Fund.

Councillor Shah Hussain, regeneration cabinet member, told a recent full council meeting: “The business team are involved in ongoing discussions with a number of business regarding their relocation to Burnley Bridge.”