MORE than 100 jobs could be created if a new business park in Simonstone is given the go-ahead.

Applicant Group First Limited have submitted plans to Ribble Valley Council to build an 18-unit park on land adjacent to Time Technology Park in Blackburn Road.

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The proposed plans include a 160-space car park which would be used for the office and industrial businesses on site.

The building would occupy an area roughly the size of a football ground on top of a redundant car-parking area, with access via an existing private road and direct entry from Burnley Road.

Within a letter to the council, a spokesman for the applicant said: “The new structure is to be of a high performance wall and roof construction with a very high thermal efficiency, exceeding the current building regulations requirements.

“We believe that the structure will be highly energy efficient and cost-effective.

“We feel that the new business park will upgrade and complement the existing street scene and the existing business facilities adjacent.

“The general appearance will be of a prestigious business park.”

The company owns several business parks across the UK, with one in Padiham, Blackburn and Burnley.

A spokesman for Group First said: “Business First serviced offices are perfect for both new business start-ups and established companies.

“Along with ample parking, the centres offer a stylish reception, break-out areas, boardrooms with the latest audio visual presentation equipment.

“Our mission is to create market leading, professionally managed, investment property developments, which through our commitment to service, standards and value become the envy of the industry.”

David Peat, a Simonstone Parish councillor said: “The parish council takes a responsible view to make sure Simonstone is a good place to live, work and be educated in and make sure that it is a place of a high quality of life.

“There is already strong employment from business parks near by such as the Time Technology Park and Fort Vale Engineering.

“We are by no means against appropriate development that would benefit the local area.”