Thumbs up for job-creating Banbridge plans

A family-owned heating and energy systems specialist seeking permission to further develop its Banbridge base due to “significant company expansion” has received the go-ahead for its plans in a move that could create more than 70 jobs.Alternative Heat was founded in 2003 and provides mechanical and electrical engineering services, CAD design, maintenance and technical support.It filed plans to expand its base on Scarva Road Industrial Estate with Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council in April 2019.The site to the north and west of Alternative Heat’s existing base spans 5.4 acres.Under the plans, a new fabrication building would be constructed on the land, along with a warehouse building and associated offices.Once complete, Alternative Heat would have added 23,680 sq ft to its gross external footprint at Scarva Road.As a result of Alternative Heat’s planned expansion, it is estimated 75 additional jobs will be created at the site.These include managerial roles, as well as roles in sales, admin, manufacturing and fabrication.Approval is subject to a number of conditions, including that work begins within five years.