MORE jobs could be created after plans were approved to build more units at an industrial estate in Westhoughton.

Absolute Concrete, based off James Street, received permission to construct two buildings on an unused piece of land next to the site and divide it into seven separate units as well as create 12 car parking spaces.

Plans had been approved last year for a six-unit extension but new proposals for seven were submitted in February.

The recent application was approved by Bolton Council last week.

The planning officer's report said: "The existing site is vacant land, which is in an untidy state. The proposals would therefore tidy up the site and provide new units.

"The use of grey metallic cladding is considered acceptable. The proposed materials are the same as proposed in the previous submission and given this would be no worse than the existing materials used for the industrial units to the north.

"However, in line with the previous approved officers will also condition details and colour of the proposed roller shutters on the proposed units.

The site will retain the existing boundary treatment to the front, with some replacement boundary treatment to the rear of the site.

"Therefore with regards to design and impact on the street scene, the proposals are considered acceptable."

A design and access statement submitted with the application said the plans would bring additional employment into the area and improve the visual appearance of the site.

It read: "The proposed development brings into use derelict/ unused land to provide industrial units within the established industrial estate to cater for the existing local businesses whom want to expand and require larger units.

"The proposal could provide existing businesses to expand and to remain in the same industrial estate, while allowing new businesses to rent out the existing smaller/starter units.

"This could generate an increase in employment and self employment in new and existing businesses to the local people and area while the design of the units will be in keeping with other industrial units in the surrounding area."

"Local businesses have shown great interest in the planning approval of six industrial units which is why this application has been put forward for an additional unit. It would allow local businesses to grow, move and/or expand within their community."