AROUND 100 jobs are set to be created with the development of the gateway to Burnley’s former Michelin site, it has been confirmed.

Three more firms have signed up for the advanced manufacturing site, known as Innovation Drive, according to Nelson-based Barnfield Construction.

Between them, Elite 04, Kavia Tooling and Lomax Offshore Couplings – are pledging to bring an initial 50 jobs to the borough – with the scope to double that tally once they are bedded in.

Council bosses have welcomed the move, which sees the trio join major players Kaman Tooling and BCW Engineering at the rejuvenated former tyre plant site.

Cllr Mark Townsend, Burnley Council leader said: “Interest in the site has been phenomenal, and I’m delighted to see the second phase underway so soon after launching the site last year.

“Innovation Drive has proved to be a prestigious address in attracting new businesses and I’m delighted to welcome Elite 04, Kavia and Lomax Offshore Couplings to the supply park.

“The new companies will bring approximately 50 jobs to Burnley between them and are set to create over 50 new jobs in the near future, effectively doubling their workforce.

“Burnley is currently undergoing a huge transformation, with millions of pounds of investment being made in its business, transport, housing and education infrastructure.”

Bosses at Barnfield have either ‘pre-let’ or ‘pre-sold’ three units alongside the entrance to the site, ranging from 3,500 square feet up to 15,000 square feet for the largest, to be occupied by Elite 04.

Tracy Clavell-Bate, the construction firm’s sales and lettings manager, said: “It has always been our intention for the industrial units on the approach to Innovation Drive to be complimentary to the main estate, in terms of use as well as style.”

Stuart Lemon, Elite’s general manager, said: “We’re really excited and proud to be moving our business operations to such a prestigious business park with award-winning neighbours.

“This move will help to propel the business into the next stage of its development by enhancing the business performance in all marketplaces and we hope to create 10 jobs in the process.”

Chris Cole, Kavia director, added: “This move enables us to target a diverse range of customers and help create future employment and apprenticeships. The help given by Burnley Borough Council has been invaluable and we hope to continue the relationship well into the future.”

The announcement is the latest in a series of business boosts for Burnley, following its confirmation as ‘most enterprising area’ in 2013 and being ranked in the top 10 for private sector jobs growth in 2014, as well as being identified as a ‘boom town’ by a leading trade journal last month.

Bosses at Kaman Tooling confirmed last year that they were hoping to create 50 jobs at a new £2.5million manufacturing plant, relocating in part from Darwen’s India Mill, and BCW Engineering’s operation is of a comparable size.