A project to open up more sites in Calderdale for business use is starting to pay dividends.
Calderdale Council has termed it ‘site unlocking’ – opening up new sites and buildings to house growing firms and attract new businesses from outside the area.
In an innovative move, the council has created a new post – Principal Site Unlocking Officer – to focus on the project and appointed Duncan Cooper to work with landowners and private developers to identify obstacles stopping sites moving forward for business development.
One of the early successes has been in Elland, at Gannex Park. Previously home to the iconic Gannex Mill, set up by the late Lord Kagan, it was taken on by developer John Radcliffe & Sons to create high-quality business premises.
The first unit is the headquarters for local company KT Hydraulics, whose turnover has doubled since occupation.
The firm, a specialist in the design, manufacture, testing and installation of hydraulic systems for international oil, gas, water and marine industries, identified the need to expand while based in a Halifax town centre location which was constraining growth because of limited space and unfit-for-purpose layout.
Keen to stay in Calderdale due to local supplier relationships, a skilled workforce and motorway access, managing director Richard Ellis identified Gannex Park as a place where the business could fulfil its potential.
He approached John Radcliffe & Sons and they worked together to transform the empty site into a modern, purpose-built facility which opened within 10 months.
Mr Ellis said: “As a result of relocating, we’ve increased efficiency and taken on larger contracts. Our turnover has doubled and we’ve been able to employ 30% more people. I commend the council’s work to bring more opportunities for businesses that have outgrown their surroundings – it helps them expand and is great for Calderdale.”
Mr Radcliffe said: “We’re grateful for the council’s help to promote the site, and keen to progress the next development phase. Gannex Park is an ideal location for businesses. It has potential to be a high-tech business park, for any type of firm”.
Mr Cooper said: “My role is to make sites viable so businesses can expand and boost employment. I provide a range of support to landowners across Calderdale – from advising on planning and infrastructure, to overcoming difficult site conditions and identifying funding options to bring premises to the market. Businesses may be in buildings that constrain their growth – we want to see new premises where they can thrive.”
