A MULTI-MILLION pound development has been put forward by a major industrial supplier.

Thomas Graham & Sons Ltd wants to create a new premises on land next to the A595 and the St Thomas Cross Roundabout in Egremont.

An application has been submitted with Copeland Council for a three-storey building, which would form a shop, warehouse and offices, along with new vehicle access, car parking and yard areas.

The steel stockholding and industrial supplies company is currently based at the Bridge End Industrial Estate in Egremont.

Thomas Graham recently celebrated its 125th anniversary and now has branches in Carlisle, Egremont, Kendal and Morecambe.

The company has appointed Architects Plus to design a new, larger, purpose-built branch in Egremont to replace the existing premises.

There are currently 38 full-time employees and the plans propose to employ an additional five members of staff.

A design and access statement submitted with the plans say the development will create additional employment opportunities, boost the local and wider economy and release the existing Thomas Graham premises for occupation by other businesses.

The site has been allocated within Copeland Council’s Local Plan as land for employment.

Mike Starkie, mayor of Copeland, said: “It’s fantastic news to get a local company making a significant investment in our towns.

“I wholeheartedly welcome the application and welcome the jobs that it will bring and the boost to the economy.”