WORK is under way on a major new warehouse and distribution centre for Blackburn-based brewery Thwaites.

Rossendale-based Hurstwood Developments is constructing the new site at Shadsworth industrial estate - the latest major development along the M65 corridor. Blackburn chartered surveyors Trevor Dawson acted in disposing of the four-and- a-half acre site to Thwaites for the new 42,000 sq ft warehouse facility.

Michael Cavanagh, associate partner at the firm, said that the deal was the latest major investment in the area following the completion of the M65 extension.

"Enquiry levels for all the major junctions are at a very buoyant level and the size of transactions being completed is particularly encouraging," said Mr Cavanagh.

The steelwork for the site is expected to be erected in April with completion due this September.

"We're delighted to be involved in such a prestigous scheme for a local firm," said Stephen Ashworth, managing director of Hurstwood Developments.

"We have been looking to expand our horizons into Blackburn and this is an excellent scheme for us."

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