A FAMILY-owned flooring firm has unveiled a new purpose-built factory in Bury which could create up to 30 jobs.

Bosses at John Lord Holdings are behind the premises at Park 66 in Pilsworth, engineered through funding through banking giants Barclays.

Plans are now in place to repurpose their existing site, off Ainsworth Road, to cater for soft flooring products for the commercial, residential and public sectors.

The specialists, who provide floor finishes across the food and drink and pharmaceutical industries, can trace its history back to a 1921 and a forward-thinking Burnley chemist.

Stephen Lord said: “As a fourth generation, family business owner, I think it is important to lay down a firm business foundation for the next generation, as well as safeguarding employment security for our existing workforce.

“Sanctioning this project was a difficult decision, especially in these uncertain economic times. But the greater risk to any business is to stand still.

“Since moving into these premises we have invested in a number of additional sales, contracts and commercial managers and as the business grows this will lead to the hiring of even more factory operatives and installation crews.”

Mr Lord had previously put his faith in Barclays when he was looking to expand another of his companies, Canal Engineering.

The 25,000 square foot unit will provide dedicated space for manufacturing, warehousing, a technical centre and offices.

Robin Richards, Barclays’ relationship director, who put together the funding package for this deal said: “John Lord Holdings has a long-standing relationship with Barclays and I’ve had the pleasure of working with Stephen Lord for a number of years.

“This move to new, purpose-built premises presented a fantastic opportunity to support them as they continue to expand their operations, contributing to the prosperity of Bury and the North West, and futureproofing the business for many years to come.”