A BUSINESS PARK aimed at small to medium sized enterprises within the manufacturing and distribution sector is now at 75 per cent capacity.

More than 120,000 sq ft of industrial space has already been built at the Sapper Jordan Rossi Park, off Otley Road, Baildon, with another 21 per cent of the space under negotiation.

Planning permission has also been secured for the final phase of buildings on plot one, 22,000 sq ft and plot seven, 17,000 sq ft at the 15-acre site.

Layout and design have been determined by the demand for space at the business park, which has come predominately from firms looking to expand or move to purpose-built premises.

Mark Taylforth, of developer Pendle Russells, said: “Businesses in this area are crying out for premises of this quality in this location, that’s clear from the discussions we’re having with buyers.

“The fact that we have seven already under offer before they’ve been built, bears that out.

“Although the original intention was for plot seven to be a large single unit, the strength of the market from smaller businesses for space under 5,000 sq ft demanded that we revise those plans and seek to reflect that market.”

Specialist textile product manufacturer Canvasman is the seventh business to move into the park.

The firm, which designs and makes bespoke textile products including canopies, outdoor coverings, shades and boat covers, has acquired the 8,800 sq ft Unit 5 at the development.

Canvasman director Chris Salisbury said the move had been vital to allow the firm’s to maintain its expansion plans.

“We’re growing at more than 25 per cent a year and needed significantly more space to continue that growth and push forward even further,” he said.

“Without a move, we’re unable to take on more staff or develop the new product lines.

“This business park is ideal as it’s in a great catchment area for recruitment of skilled employees, and the transport links are perfect for our existing staff and supply chain.”

The remaining units at the Park are being marketed by agents Dale Eddison Commercial and Knight Frank.