Thumbs up for 21 new Clitheroe industrial units

A plan to build new industrial space on a former golf driving range in Clitheroe, Lancashire, has been approved.

The development, which comprises 110,000 sq feet of commercial space spread over 21 industrial units, is expected to create a number of new jobs in the area.

Lancashire businessman James Alpe of James Aple Developments Ltd, who acquired the 6.8-acre site on Salthill Industrial Estate last year, is the mind behind the plan.

He said: “This is a good opportunity to bring new high-quality industrial facilities to Clitheroe, which due to its rural location has only limited scope for new commercial development.

“Having both lived and worked in the area all my life it is important to me that Clitheroe continues to thrive and evolve.”

While the units in the development will range from 1,000 sq ft to 14,000 sq ft, James also intends to create parking spaces and plant new trees as part of a biodiversity plan.

James has operated an automotive business on the site for the past 20 years, providing vehicle conversions, hire and sales, and accident repair services, in addition to running a sign company.

Harrison Drury Solicitors advised James Alpe Developments during the transaction.

Simon England, the head of the law firm’s office in Clitheroe, commented: “These units will provide much-needed industrial and office space, allowing new businesses to move in and create new jobs, as well as allowing established businesses wanting to stay in the area to expand.

“This investment will provide a significant economic boost to Clitheroe and the wider Ribble Valley.”

James Alpe Developments was advised by Burnley-based Avalon Town Planning’s Alan Kinder on the scheme’s design and the submission of the planning application.