Work begins on next phase of £38m Leyland town centre improvements

Work has now started on the next phase of the £38m Leyland town centre improvements, with Sutcliffe Projects undertaking site investigation work.

Once the first phase of the site investigation has been completed, the next stage will be the demolition of the former NFM Iddons factory that will make way for the business and skills hub BASE2, residential developments and a new car park.

William Baldwin, director of Sutcliffe Projects, said: "The Leyland Town deal aims to support business growth, the regeneration of the local town centre, and improvements in infrastructure - pillars we are immensely proud to align ourselves with at Sutcliffe."

All the six planning applications for the Leyland Town Deal schemes have now been approved and work can now begin.

Leyland Town Deal comprises of two main projects, BASE2 and town centre improvements. These projects include a major upgrade for Leyland Market, new commercial and residential developments alongside highways and public realm improvements.

Coun Paul Foster, leader of South Ribble Borough Council and Leyland Town Deal board member, said: "I am really pleased to see this scheme moving to the next stage. The Town Deal funding is a great opportunity to bring much needed investment to Leyland town centre and progress on the scheme brings the prospect of improved economic benefits closer to reality."

Leyland Town Deal was awarded £24.95m of government funding following a bid submitted by the Leyland Town Deal Board. The board includes representatives from private sector businesses, education, public, community and voluntary sectors.