Business expansion supports sporting opportunities

Reporter: Ask Bury
Date online: 06 August 2007

A proposal to expand the business operation of Expert Logistics, a local firm based in Radcliffe, will create more than 100 new jobs in the Borough as well as providing Redbank playing fields and Allen’s Bowling Club with a pound;200,000 face lift.

Expert Logistics is part of Iceland Foods Limited that specialises in the distribution of white and brown goods. Their base in Bury Road, Radcliffe is utilised principally for delivery operations and serves the whole of the United Kingdom. In April they submitted a planning application to expand their business.

Whilst initially it appeared the Council would have to reject the proposal on planning grounds, negotiations initiated by the Planning Service with the applicant, site owner and Sport England proved fruitful, resulting in a solution that satisfies everyone.

Stewart Kellett, Regional Director, Sport England said; ldquo;We are delighted to have worked with Bury Council and Expert Logistics on this planning application to achieve such a positive outcome for community sport in Radcliffe. This significant investment at Redbank will enable lots more people to get involved in sport and physical activity, and we welcome the commitment of the Council and Expert Logistics to providing these opportunities.”

Councillor Dorothy Gunther, Executive Member, Environment and Transport said; ldquo;Bury very much welcomes the extra jobs and developments proposed by Expert Logistics and Iceland.

By working with the developer and Sport England a creative solution has been achieved which not only recognises the council’s strong planning policies of protecting recreational facilities but also supports the needs of the developer and the creation of many new jobs for our town.”

Neil Long, Assistant Director of Leisure Services said ldquo;The pound;200,000 investment resulting from this development proposal is very much welcomed and it will be used to upgrade the football pitch at Redbank playing fields and refurbish the Allen Green bowling pavilion. As part of a long term improvement programme the funding will assist in providing quality facilities for many years to come. Works will be planned over the next 2 financial years with a likely start in October.”