Willenhall transport firm Aspray24 in expansion talks

Aspray24 wants to increase the size of its 17-acre head office in Noose Lane.

The firm which employs more than 700 people across the UK and has over 550 trucks want to take over neighbouring land.

Discussions have been taking place with Hammond Case and Pallet over the site, which would see them move to improved premises elsewhere. It comes after Aspray24 have already taken over the former George Carter site in Park Road to create a warehouse. Bosses say they are keen to continue to grow, safeguard and bring new jobs.

An application has been lodged with Walsall Council for planning permission to use the Hammond's site, if acquired, to create more lorry space.

Stuart Laight, managing director at Aspray24, said securing permission would enable the company to move fast if the land became available. "We are very busy at the moment so it is sensible to plan for growth," he said. "We employ around 300 people here in Willenhall out of a total of 780 and if we can expand here - creating more jobs and securing the ones already here – then that is what we want to do."

The application states the company has grown since being on site in the 1990s from 4.7 acres. It has seen an extra 85 workers recruited in 2012 and another 115 last year.

The scheme put forward through Stephen Bullock, of Gould Singleton Architects, said: "The proposed development will, it is suggested, enhance the facilities within Aspray 24, reduce the congestion of articulated vehicles within the current site and provide the potential for additional employment."

"And critically to the Willenhall area, will ensure the retention of Aspray 24's facility and employment within this area.

John Hammond, of the pallet business, confirmed they would be willing to vacate and move to more modern premises.

Family-run firm Aspray24 took on the old George Carter Pressings site after it closed down in 2009, after 179 years of business.