WORK on a 10,000 sq ft extension at a Haslingden flooring firm has secured 175 jobs in Haslingden and created a further 61.

Interfloor, which has its headquarters in Broadway, said the new facility was the final part of a £3m initiative launched last year, to help it keep up with changes in the industry.

The firm, the largest manufacturer of carpet underlay and flooring accessories in Europe, has invested in new equipment and extra warehouse space with the help of a government grant.

Interfloor currently houses some products at hauliers’ warehouses, but hopes to save money by building its own.

The company applied for £150,000 through the Regional Growth Fund (RGF) with the backing of Regenerate Pennine Lancashire and Rossendale Council.

Gary McEwan, Interfloor’s human resources director, said: “Regenerate have supported us with our growth plans, which will help us significantly increase the manufacturing capacity of our polyurethane products.

“We needed to move fast with the project, and Regenerate responded quickly to help us.

“We’ve already recruited 60 staff and protected another 175 jobs by investing in our Lancashire base and look forward to growing the business further.”

The firm exports to more than 70 countries and supplies companies including Carpetright, B&Q and John Lewis.

Rossendale councillor Andy MacNae, portfolio holder for regeneration, tourism and leisure, said: “Rossendale Council very much welcome Interfloor's expansion in Haslingden.

“It will not only have an impact on their business, but local suppliers too. It’s good to see Rossendale businesses take advantage of Regenerate’s RGF grant support and we’d urge others to do so while it is available.”