Whitebirk overhaul could create 2,000 jobs

A proposed development for a mixed employment site at Whitebirk that could create up to 2,000 jobs is to be unveiled at a public exhibition by commercial property developer and investor, Praxis.

Praxis believes that the employment led mixed-used development comprising some 98,000 sq m of buildings, including industrial and warehouse development, offices, hotel and food and leisure facilities, will help attract inward investment resulting in job growth and the development of the Pennine Lancashire economy. The employment potential is also recognised in neighbouring Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Core Strategy (2011).

The public exhibition will provide local people with the opportunity to have their say on the proposals, learn more about the site, view the scheme drawings and put forward any questions they may have to the project team.

Gabriel McLaughlin, director and head of asset management, at Praxis, said: “Against the backdrop of a tough economic environment, we are developing plans for a mixed employment development site that will act as a major boost to the local economy with the creation of up to 2,000 jobs of significant benefit to the local community. "We are keen to ensure that the local community has the opportunity to comment on the scheme to help develop something we’re all proud of and that fulfil our objectives of attracting inward investment and creating a range of jobs for the area.”