A new industrial development which could create a 'very considerable' number of jobs is being planned in Widnes.

London-based Avjon 3 Ltd has submitted a planning application to Halton Council, for a 5,615 sq m facility on land to the west of the Shell Green industrial estate on Bennetts Lane.

The proposals include a building designated for logistics/industrial use, office space, 58 parking spaces, 23 HGV trailer spaces and a service yard.

No prospective occupant has yet been revealed, but a planning statement submitted in support said the proposals would bring ‘a very considerable number' of permanent job opportunities to the borough.

It said: “The intention is to create a building of smart, contemporary appearance.

“The proposal will deliver a very considerable number of permanent employment opportunities and associated wages to the local area. It will generate additional business rates directly payable to Halton and retained by Halton to support local services."

It said the project would be a ‘viable, deliverable and high quality’ sustainable development scheme being undertaken in ‘ongoing difficult economic times’.

It added: “Not only will the proposal expand an existing hub of industrial and commercial activity, but it will also create long term secure job opportunities that will facilitate local economic growth an the creation of sustainable communities.”

Planning consent for Shell Green dates back to 1992 with a number of industrial developments having been given the go ahead since.

The application added: “It is important to bear in mind that the site is allocated for employment development.

"If that is to be delivered, it inevitably requires the clearance of much of the site, removing what is largely mediocre or poor vegetation.

"Trees and vegetation will be retained along the boundaries to be supplemented by new planting.”

Nn date has yet been set for a decision by the council's planning department.