The former Alstom factory in Strand Road is set to be full of life once more.

Lancashire-based stone work surface fabrication company Granite House is expanding its operations to the building in Ashton-on-Ribble.

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The firm, which says it has outgrown its existing premises near Southport, will be looking to increase staff levels to handle the increase in work at Preston.

After looking for over a year for larger premises around the Blackburn and Preston areas, Granite House said the location of the Victorian factory swung the deal.

Granite House Marketing Director, Geoff Hill, said: “We currently have a staff of over 50 at our site in Southport. That will be retained for other production lines, while the main core of our business transfers to Preston.

“The ease of access by road and rail was perfect for our own transport to reach motorways quickly, and for our staff to get to work easily.”

The original Alstom factory, which more recently serviced Virgin Pendolino trains, has been empty since 2018.

Read more: Blow as Alstom announces it is pulling out of Preston

With a large amount of new machinery to be installed at the Strand Road site, the unit is not expected to be in full production until around June 2020.

Granite House provides solid work surfaces to clients and shopfitters all over the UK.

Geoff said: “We have been targeting trade and commercial work, which has been very rewarding.

“We now handle work for large housing developers, restaurant chains and hotels – and due to our expertise and craftsmanship have obtained prestigious work such has Harrods in London, Tottenham Hotspur’s new football stadium and hospitality suites at Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Club. The sky’s the limit.”

Read more: Preston memories of Alstom and GEC Traction

What do you think of the news that Granite House will be taking over the site? Let us know in the comments.