GREGGS plans to build a new £16m bakery in Openshaw - securing more than 300 jobs.

The firm has announced it will relocate from its existing site in Eccleshall Street, Clayton, to a 75,000sq ft bakery in Parkhouse Street, Openshaw.

The move follows the completion of a deal between the company, Manchester Council and regeneration body New East Manchester, supported by a £7m grant from the North West Development Agency.

New East Manchester will use the land at Eccleshall Street as part of a 400-home development, next to the proposed Metrolink line and Ashton Canal, off Ashton New Road.

Ian Pegg, managing director of Greggs North West, said: "As a major employer in east Manchester, we are delighted with the outcome of these discussions.

"It means we shall be able to keep the skills of the people in our business and also provide new opportunities for people.

"The new site will allow for continued expansion of the Greggs business here in the North West."

Construction work is expected to start in the autumn. The present factory employs 150 people in manufacturing, as well as office and distribution staff.

Robert Hough, chairman of New East Manchester, said: "It's good news that the company's future in east Manchester is now secure.

"This is an excellent example of where the public and private sector work in partnership."

Tweet