David Brown looks to next chapter with plan for engineering site

The gear technology company plans to open a new chapter in its 150-year history. It hopes to move more than 270 of its 450 staff based in West Yorkshire to a new home.

The proposed site at Leeds Road, in Mirfield, is six miles away from David Brown’s site in Lockwood, Huddersfield, where the company has been headquartered for more than 100 years.

More than 170 people attended a public exhibition organised by David Brown to discuss proposals for its new site on Leeds Road.

The public exhibition about the planned development, which includes two buildings in landscaped grounds, was held at Christ the King Church in Mirfield.

Of those attending who provided feedback, 78 per cent said the development would benefit the local area. Only 22 per cent said they “felt negatively” about the development plans.

Wayne Ball, the general manager at David Brown’s UK facility, said: “The new site allows David Brown to remain in the heart of the community, so that as we extend our global reach as a world-class manufacturer, we can reinvest here and create jobs in the local community.

“Before we make any final decisions we want to receive feedback on our proposals and we remain committed to ensuring everyone’s views are heard.

“If anyone unable to attend the exhibition would like to comment please email us at [email protected].”

David Brown will analyse the questions raised during the consultation process before submitting a formal planning application for detailed planning consent.

Construction on the 10-acre site is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2012.

David Brown is planning the move in stages which are expected to reach completion by the third quarter of 2013.