GLOBAL tech giant Amazon has been revealed as the next major employer moving in to Bolton.

The largest internet retailer in the world will be opening a new distribution base at the Logistics North development, in Over Hulton, which will create at least 1,200 jobs.

It has not been confirmed when the massive centre will open, but Amazon is now advertising for some jobs at the site.

The addition of Amazon to the growing employment hub, which also houses major sites for companies including Aldi and MBDA, has been described as a 'real coup' by town hall bosses.

Cllr Cliff Morris, leader of Bolton Council, said: “It is fantastic that such a major company has decided to open such a huge operation in Bolton.

“We are absolutely delighted that this development will create at least 1,200 jobs for local people and those living in the surrounding area – great news for our residents.

“This is a real coup for our town and it is continuing proof that Bolton is open for business.

“Logistics North is one of the most important sites in the region and this is further proof that it is the perfect distribution site for business.

“It is no surprise that a global company as large as this is coming here. Our town recently ranked ninth in the country for the best place to work and live, so Bolton is clearly an attractive proposition for job growth.

“This comes after we recently announced our £1 billion masterplan for the town centre, which will facilitate the redevelopment and growth of our town as a whole.”

It was revealed almost a year ago that a mystery employer would be moving into Plot E1 at Logistics North, which was bought from site owner Harworth Group and developed speculatively by Exeter Property Group/First Industrial, and required major modifications to be made in order to accommodate its huge workforce.

Developer First Panattoni, previously known as First Industrial, has since been granted permission to extend the offices on the plot and create a multi-storey car park.

International mining firm Joy Global and postal service Whistl are among the other companies to open sites at the the former Cutacre mining plot, where more than 2,000 people are already employed.

In December, the council agreed to make a fund of £2.2 million available to Harworth Group to entice more ‘major’ companies to Logistics North.

However, The Bolton News understands that none of that money has been used to facilitate Amazon's arrival.

While Amazon has not yet confirmed the exact nature of the work that will be undertaken at the site, it is expected to operate 22 hours a day, seven days a week.

The range of jobs expected to be created in Bolton include managerial positions, information technology, office-related, picking, sorting and packing.

Amazon’s jobs website states that it is currently recruiting a loss prevention manager and a learning and development manager to be based in Bolton.

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Earlier this year, the online shopping giant announced that it was creating 1,200 jobs at one of its new fulfilment centres in Warrington.

It also has a warehouse at Trafford Park, in Stretford.