PLANS to expand a Bradford business have been "enthusiastically" approved by Councillors.

Bradford based Metalcraft Ltd had submitted plans to build a huge expansion to its Progress Works site on Hall Lane, East Bowling.

The application was approved by members of Bradford Council's Regulatory and Appeals Committee yesterday.

The existing building on the site has a floor area of 568 square metres - and the extension will provide an additional 5,369 square metres in floor area to allow for an engineering operation that will create 40 jobs at the metal manufacturer.

Parking spaces at the site will increase from 12 to 102.

Industrial development planned for Bradford city centre site

A report to the committee by planning officers said: "It is considered that the development, which will create 40 jobs on site, is acceptable and will not present any highway or visual amenity concerns and is sited such that the impact on the nearest residential properties will be minimal.”

Chair of the Committee Councillor David Warburton (Lab, Wyke) pointed out that the site was once owned by William Warburton, a former Councillor and his great, great uncle.

However, he said this distant familial link would have no sway on his decision making.

Planning officers had recommended the scheme for approval.

Councillor Geoff Reid (Lib Dem, Eccleshill) said he gave his "enthusiastic approval" to the plans. The other councillors agreed, and the application was unanimously passed.