AN ESTIMATED 200 jobs will be created at a manufacturing plant if its expansion plans are approved.

Smart Architectural Aluminium in Yatton wants to build a 220,00sq ft extension to its current facilities and if North Somerset Council approves proposals submitted this month, work will begin next year.

Managing director Eddie Robinson said the expansion would allow the firm to double the size of its workforce and bring some welcome good news to the job market.

He said: “This is great news for our business and for the local economy.

“The proposed extension will see the installation of a third, state-of-the-art aluminium extrusion press and a second paint line, adding around 50 per cent to our overall manufacturing capacity.

“The development will also create over 200 new, permanent jobs on site, and we will be recruiting and training a wide range of skilled workers, effectively doubling our existing workforce.

“This new development is a key element of our growth plans and will allow us to continue to meet the increasing demand for our architectural aluminium systems from architects, contractors, fabricators and installers across the UK.”

The firm, which first moved to Arnolds Way seven years ago, has expanded twice before.

One of the previous applications outlined plans for a 79m wind turbine and North Somerset Council is due to make a decision on it tonight (Thurs) at Weston Town Hall.

The council has received more than a dozen objections from villagers over the turbine, with concerns ranging from noise pollution to ruining the landscape.

North Somerset Council members will debate the plans at the central area committee meeting tonight at 6pm. Planning officers have recommended refusing the application.