A CHARITY that provides young people with apprentice work has been given permission to undergo a major expansion.

Appris, based at Btal house in Laisterdyke (pictured), last year revealed plans to expand its base to provide space for an extra 70 apprentices a week.

The expansion would allow the service to offer training in fabrication and welding, and the plans were supported by numerous local businesses.

The application has now been approved by Bradford Council, and it will mean Appris could train up to 250 apprentices a week, up from 180.

It will also create three new teaching jobs.

Planning officers for the council said: “This development would lead to new employment and would comply with the advice

that states that the Government is committed to securing economic growth, jobs and prosperity.”