Bosses reveal reason for move to Blackpool of X-ray machine parts maker

Blackpool Council’s Executive has given the go-ahead to build a 40,000 sq ft commercial factory unit as part of Phase One development of

the site.

The custom-built premises will be the new headquarters for Multi-Ply Components Ltd, specialists in the design and manufacture of carbon fibre composite components for the medical x-ray equipment industry.

Founded in 1987 by Peter Bourne, Multi-Ply currently operates from three sites in Inskip and Great Eccleston. Multi-Ply will be combining its sites in a purpose built commercial unit on the enterprise zone for its 69 staff.

The move will allow the company to expand, initially creating a further 16 new jobs and are expecting to employ over 100 staff within the next five years. The new site also provides the company with land for further expansion in the future if required.

Sue Bourne, co-owner of Multi-Ply said: “It has been a complex journey to get to this point and we are delighted that we can finally see a start to building our new premises.

"We have outgrown our current sites which all have agricultural connections and are just no longer suitable for our business needs. The new premises will enable us to expand and continue to grow our business which involves supplying key components to the medical imaging market worldwide.

"It was important that we remained on the Fylde Coast as we wanted to provide stability for our staff; the opportunity to build a bespoke unit at Blackpool Airport Enterprise Zone has enabled us to do that. We are excited for what the future holds and can’t wait to relocate to this new site.”

Peter Appleton, Managing Director of Multi-Ply said: “I am extremely pleased to see this phase of the project being approved. This new facility will mean we can consolidate our manufacturing operations on one site and allow us to further grow the business. Additionally this will also deliver real economic benefit for the Fylde coast region.”

Coun Mark Smith, Cabinet Member for Business, Enterprise and Job Creation said: “This flagship development will be the first bespoke build on Phase 1 development land at the eastern gateway of the site, earmarking a significant move forward with the regeneration plans, bringing valuable skilled employment opportunities to the area and providing a catalyst for future private sector development and investment over the next few years.”

The development is part funded by Lancashire Enterprise Partnership’s Growth Deal Funding subject to contract.

Steve Fogg, Chair of the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, which contributed £800,000 through Growth Deal funding said: "It is great news that Blackpool Council's Executive has given the go ahead for this scheme.

"The development will contribute to the continuing transformation of Blackpool and has the potential to create a number of new jobs for the area."