A HIGH-tech aerospace firm has benefitted from a rates relief from Bradford Council allowing it to create 20 new apprenticeships and skilled jobs.

Produmax, based in Baildon, has been granted £100,000 in rates relief from the Council’s District Growth Scheme.

This will allow it to expand its operations and create 20 new apprenticeships and skilled engineering jobs.

Produmax plans to investion more than half a million pounds in new machinery and fit out so it can meet increasing demand for its high-quality commercial and military aircraft components for markets in North America, Mexico, Italy, Austria, China and Japan.

The apprentices will train at Keighley College, which runs courses in mechanical manufacturing engineering, business improvement techniques and mechanical engineering.

The Council’s District Growth Scheme is based in its successful City Centre Growth Scheme, and provides businesses with financial incentives to invest and expand operations in the Bradford district, create new jobs and bring empty and heritage buildings back into use.

It offers rate reductions of up to £170,000 over three years.

Founded in 1966 in Otley, Produmax moved to its base in Baildon in 2015, and is one of a number of manufacturing firms providing key growth to the Bradford District.

Councillor Alex Ross-Shaw, portfolio holder for regeneration, planning and transport, said: “We are thrilled to see cutting-edge firms such as Produmax expanding and creating jobs within Bradford district.

“It’s great to see these high value aerospace jobs include new apprenticeships which will be provided locally.

“The first recipient of the District Growth Scheme was in Ilkley so it’s pleasing to see a thriving business in Baildon benefit as well. This shows how we’re supporting business growth right across the district.

“The City Centre Growth and District Growth Schemes are part of a wider package designed to boost investment, skills and jobs across Bradford district.”

For further information about the Growth Schemes, contact Invest In Bradford on 01274 437727 or email info@investinbradford.com