A GROWING company is to open a multi-million pound new manufacturing facility in Keighley.

Platinum Stairlifts is consolidating its operations with the construction of state-of-the-art, purpose-built premises at Foundry Park, off Dalton Lane.

The £5 million-plus venture will enable the firm – which this year celebrates its 25th anniversary – to more than double its production capacity and create at least 30 new jobs.

Work began onsite in May and is scheduled for completion early next year, with a transition from other sites taking place during 2022.

The company intends retaining – and renovating – its head office, at The Crossings, Cross Hills, where there will be a new customer showroom and executive offices.

Design work for the new Foundry Park facility was carried out by Bingley-based MA Design & Planning and construction is being managed by Gardiner & Theobold, overseen by principal contractor HB Projects.

Marcus Green, Platinum Stairlifts’ chief financial officer, said: “The project will provide a huge 58,000 square feet of production facility over two floors.

“With new machinery, many process efficiencies, the ability to hold further stocks and the capacity to add hours on the production line we will be able to more than double our output – and improve turnaround times for customers and thus profitability for the group.

“We are therefore working on an extensive recruitment drive – with the help of local agencies and colleges – to take on enthusiastic trainees and professionals who are looking for a stable, skilled career in the area.

“This is a fantastic opportunity and we are delighted to get the development underway.”

The firm’s workforce currently numbers over 200.

And more than 10,000 stairlifts are shipped to a global network of partners each year.

Chief executive officer, Clive Briscoe, said: “We worked closely with colleagues to understand what they wanted from the new facilities.

“As a result, the site will accommodate 90 much-needed car parking spaces, electric vehicle charging points, secure bike parking and shower and canteen facilities.

“The site is within easy walking distance of Keighley’s public transport and an ‘A‘ road link, providing easy access.

“Also, environmentally-friendly design aspects have been considered and incorporated from the outset.

“There will be a circular heating system installed – using the heat produced by the welding machines to heat the building – and a waste compaction system and recycling facility.

“It’s important to get these aspects included from the outset, making our operations environmentally sound and future proof.”