AN E-CIGARETTE company is set to double the size of its workforce in a large scale expansion.

CN Creative manufacturer, currently based in Accrington, will move to a new 10,870 sq ft base in Phoenix Park, Blackburn, which is three times bigger than its existing premises, on Tuesday.

Seven new staff have already been hired by the company, but it hopes to take on 30 new employees in the next few months, doubling its current numbers.

It has also said it hopes the additional storage space will allow it to increase its operational ability.

Jack Straw, MP for Blackburn, said: “I think that company growth is a good thing especially if it will help to reduce unemployment in the area.

“I’m in the hands of the experts so trust their advice on e-cigarettes. From the research I have heard it looks as though they are helping smokers.

But likewise if any reserach appears that suggests they are harmful I will trust them.”

The relocation will mean that three electronic cigarette manufacturers now operate within Blackburn and Darwen.

E-cigarettes have boomed in popularity in the UK over the last couple of years as an alternative to the traditional product.

Nick Henderson, spokesman for the company, said it was looking forward to expanding at its new base.

He said: “It’s down to the consumer to make their own decision about which brand they use.”

CN Creative’s main product, Intellicig, which is sold in 8,000 pharmancy outlets in 24 countries uses a water-based nicotine solution in place of tobacco released in vapours.

Although favoured by some smokers attempting to quit, the amount of nicotine contained in the devices could be limited by the European Parliament in September.

This comes after the European Commission highlighted concerns that not enough research had been done into their potential long term side effects.

Mr Henderson said: “The company has been preparing for the possibility of regulation since its inception, investing heavily in research and development facilities, licensing, expert staff and certifications that ensure the highest standards of safety and quality are met.”