A LEADING textile firm as reapplied for planning permission to expand its factory and create new jobs.

DHJ Weisters wants to add a two-storey extensions to it Anchor Mill home in Moss Fold Road, Darwen.

The move will create new jobs.

The application to Blackburn with Darwen Council is a revised version of one approved in May 2017 which was never implemented and has now lapsed.

The firm uses the premises for the computer-based design of fabrics and the weaving of jacquard and dobby fabrics for neckwear, curtains and bridalwear.

The sewing of cravats and ties, finishing of woven fabrics and warehousing for a range of bridal laces is also undertaken on site.

Weisters, which employs around 50 staff, has been involved in the textile trade in Darwen since 1932, and was originally known as Lancashire Silk Mills.

Darwen West ward's Cllr Dave Smith, chairman of the borough planning committee, said: "A local firm expanding is alway to be welcomed but we will have to closely at the detail of the revised application."

Supporting documents submitted with the new application say: "In essence, the proposal is for an extension to the existing industrial premises on very much the same lines as previously approved.

"It will lead to significant investment locally and allow commercial premises to continue to make a contribution to the local economy.

"The effect of the proposal upon the local economy is obvious; the scheme offers the prospect of new employment opportunities to be generated locally

"It is perfectly possible to achieve the development as proposed within the site. It is not an over-intensive development.

"The site is currently used as a car parking area.

"The total footprint of the proposed dwelling is 264 square metres and is a two-storey portal framed structure.

"The ground floor is to be used for production and storage and the first floor will be used as office space to accommodate the increased production demand.

"The design is a typical industrial building with profiled metal colour coated cladding.

"The building is approximately seven metres to eaves and eight metres to top of ridge."

The business, established by German fabric importer JH Godfrey Weisters, remains a family concern. It has a smaller factory in Cheshire.