Chorley business park gets approval

Locally-based FI Real Estate Management (FIREM) has received planning permission from Chorley Borough Council to redevelop the 21-acre Botany Bay site to create a new complex of 33 business units that will boost employment and commercial opportunities in Lancashire.

As well as light industrial units, the plans also include around 36,996m² of commercial floorspace. The scheme will also have large areas of landscaping, pedestrian routes, a car park and a takeaway food business.

FIREM said the development will be delivered by its own construction division, which will work with local supply chain partners to ensure the building works create extensive opportunities for local employment and training.

Councillor Alistair Bradley, Leader of Chorley Council, said: “This will be a really important development for the borough as it will create hundreds of jobs and much-needed industrial units.

“It will not only attract new businesses to Chorley but also give those needing to expand, but wanting to remain in the borough, the space to do so.

“We’ve seen the positive impact that developments we have led have had on the local economy, but it’s just as important that other businesses bring sites forward too, and we look forward to seeing Botany Bay rejuvenated by these plans.

Construction is set to commence in the coming months with completion set for mid-2024.