BOSSES at St Helens Glass, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year, have announced that the company is relocating to new, purpose-built premises within the borough.

Managing director, Tom Sykes, said the move "signalled a new and exciting era for the company and everyone associated with it."

He added: "The new premises will provide employees with a much-improved working environment featuring leading-edge manufacturing systems complemented by modern, comfortable and environmentally friendly offices.

"Significant investment in the latest IT systems will benefit all key business functions and there will be improved car parking and welfare facilities for employees.

"The relocation is a clear sign of our growing success and of our confidence in the company's future prosperity."

The company has operated from its town centre premises in Corporation Street since the early 1970s. Relocation will take more than 100 industrial and commercial vehicles a day out of the town centre and will ease congestion in Corporation Street.

St Helens Glass, which employs more than 400 people, is currently working closely with the council and has short-listed several possible relocation sites. Employees will be given the chance to relocate to the new premises and the company has promised to keep them informed at every stage of the relocation.

Mr Sykes concluded: "We are determined to maintain our position at the forefront of the home improvements market. Relocation to new premises will provide the springboard for future growth and a platform for the company to strengthen its market leadership position."

Redevelopment of the Corporation Street site is being handled by Sterling Capitol Limited, a major national property developer."