WORK is starting on a new business site that will hope to bring 100 jobs to Rossendale.

Futures Business Park in Bacup will see a vacant plot transformed into the site for an international factory.

The building will be a manufacturing facility for Orthoplastics, a world leader in the development and supply of implantable medical devices for the orthopaedic sector, involving musculo-skeletal issues.

The opening is expected to take place in 2020 and is a partnership between Orthoplastics, Barnfield Construction and Rossendale Borough Council.

It is thought the opening of the factory will create 100 jobs over the next few years.

Councillor Alyson Barnes, Leader of Rossendale Borough Council, said: "We are working hard to build a really healthy, proud and vibrant Rossendale and this new opportunity is great news. I can’t wait to see the work start in earnest.”

Councillor Jackie Oakes, Portfolio Holder for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: "This plot of land has been ripe for development and I am thrilled that Orthoplastics and Barnfield are coming in to help develop this area even more.

"The number of jobs it is going to bring in is wonderful news and this is an important part of our hard work to build on business and development opportunities in the borough."

Mark Allen, Managing Director of Orthoplastics, said: "Innovation is at the heart of the future of UK manufacturing, and this factory will provide our customers with the confidence in our long-term investments strategy, whilst demonstrating our strategic partnership and commitment.2