A MANUFACTURER has won permission for a major redevelopment of its town centre site.

John Reid & Sons, known as REIDsteel, has been given the go-ahead to expand its Christchurch factory, taking in the site next door formerly occupied by Peeks Party Store.

The redevelopment will create a 6.4-acre manufacturing base which will increase capacity and create jobs, the firm says.

Managing director Simon Boyd said: “This is absolutely brilliant news for REIDsteel, the local economy and GB PLC.

“It is a milestone in the long history of the company, which has gained a worldwide reputation for high quality British engineering, design and manufacturing.

“It will allow us to significantly increase productivity, create more highly-skilled employment and apprenticeships, and boost the local economy while cutting our carbon footprint.

“In addition, the new facility will enhance our ability within both the domestic and export markets.”

The firm employs 130 people and its products include aircraft hangars, bridges, sports stadiums and industrial and commercial buildings. It has exported to more than 140 countries.

Mr Boyd said: “Our thanks go to BCP Council and their planning team for their support throughout the process.

“They have worked with our planning consultants and architects to achieve a well-balanced development which will contribute significantly to the local community.

“All those involved with the planning process had the vision required to understand the importance of delivering a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility on a key site in Christchurch for the long-term growth of our company.

“Furthermore, they recognised the positive effect it will have on our local community which I also thank for their support.

“Our people are our company, where every one of our 130 employees is a valued team member; together we are one team.

“This is a very welcome decision and is essential to our drive for continuous improvement, and not just for manufacturing but for our people who are at the core of everything we do. It is a landmark moment as we look forward to an exciting future.”

The company won full planning permission for the development, which will include a production yard, staff parking accessed from Mill Road, environmental improvements and landscaping.

It will also include rooftop solar panels and electric vehicle charging points.

Multiple manufacturing processes will be brought into a single, automated production line.

REIDsteel will continue with current operations on the site during the redevelopment work.