Backing given to Ainley Top engineering factory

Cummins Turbo Technologies has submitted a planning application to Calderdale Council to develop a manufacturing facility off New Hey Road, just outside of Rastrick.

The application follows an extensive search to identify a site which would allow the business to maintain and strengthen its presence in the area.

Head of Infrastructure and Investment Colin Blackburn at WYCA said that it backs plans for the development.

“The M62 corridor is a strategic location ideally suited to facilitate access to a wide pool of highly skilled workers and the efficient distribution of goods. This strategic location comprises high quality manufacturing companies in sectors such as digital technology, automotive engineering, and textiles,” he said.

“Advanced manufacturing is identified as one of the six key priority sectors in the Strategic Economic Plan, so promoting growth in the manufacturing sector and retaining a major manufacturing business within West Yorkshire aligns with the WYCA and LEPs policy ambitions.”

If approved, 400 jobs would relocate to the proposed new facility from its existing site in Huddersfield.

Mark Prior, Huddersfield Turbo Plant Transformation Director, said: “The new plant will allow us to continue our investment in manufacturing and skills in the region, enabling us to enhance our operations and supply chain capabilities, which are critical to the company’s short and long-term success. We are committed to keeping our operation in the local community rather than moving jobs to another region or another country.”

Following a public consultation last year, Mr Prior says it has amended its original proposals for an 18,600sq metres plant following feedback

Mark Prior said: “The public consultation with the local community provided some useful feedback, and demonstrated a good level of local support for our plans. However, some local residents highlighted a few areas of concern.

“We have taken the time to carefully consider the feedback received and consequently, sought to address these concerns by amending our proposals, where possible.”