PLANS are being drawn up for a £150m development of industrial and distribution warehouses that backers claim could create at least 2,500 jobs, the St Helens Star has learned.

Commercial developer Bericote Properties is preparing a planning application for 1,400,000 sq ft of industrial and distribution warehouses at Florida Farm North off the East Lancs, creating an extension to Haydock Industrial Estate.

The proposed £150m development, which would be on land that is currently classed as greenbelt, will also include office space, car parking and improved access to the industrial estate. Those living nearby will be consulted on plans for the development.

Bericote, which is understood to be attracted to the area because of the links to the M6 and the desire of big companies with distribution needs to locate there, say it will create "significant employment opportunities" to the area.

In addition they claim the development is forecasted to generate more than £2m per year in business rate revenue for St Helens Council.

Keith Wilson, development director for Bericote Properties, said: “Bericote Properties is proud to be bringing forward plans for a £150 million employment development at Florida Farm, creating a lasting legacy of jobs and investment for St Helens.

“Our consultation event will give local people an opportunity to find out more about the scheme. We look forward to hearing the views of local people and to working closely with the community so they can help us shape the proposals.

“We very much believe that this is great news for St Helens and is a sign of growing investor confidence in the town.”

The plans will be on public display at the Ibis Styles in Haydock from 2pm to 7pm on Thursday, May 26. Planning consultant Nathaniel Lichfield and Partners and other members of the development team will be on hand to answer questions.

Following the consultation a planning application will be finalised and submitted to St Helens Council.