MORE than 100 new hi-tech jobs are set for Bolton as a dental company plans massive new premises to make the borough a 'world leader' in the field.

Fast-growing Swift Dental is looking to expand into a purpose-built production unit in Breightmet and have submitted plans to build new premises.

The firm was established in 1984 by Roy McGillivray and Mark Stevenson and has evolved into the UK’s largest dental laboratory group, employing over 300 nationwide, many of whom work at Lakeside House in Smith’s Road.

Mr McGillivray, managing director, says they are planning for the 'dental laboratory of the future' at the proposed premises at Firwood Industrial Estate, Thicketford Road.

Around 119 jobs would be created should the plans go ahead and the company said it would commit even further to training and research, supporting dozens of dental technology students, many from the University of Bolton.

The previous building at the site they propose was destroyed in a huge fire in March 2020 and the land is now vacant.

A planning statement said: "The proposals represent an opportunity to create a high-quality sustainable development to suit the needs of Swift Dental Group and any future occupiers.

"The proposed development will make efficient and effective use of the site, to help meet the economic needs of Bolton, particularly by ensuring an existing Bolton based business is retained within the borough."

The plans show a ground floor production area of approximately 1,810sqm, and office accommodation of approximately 1295sqm on ground and first floors at either end of the building.

There is car parking space for 78 vehicles provided in the plans.

Mr McGillivray added: "All of us at Swift Dental believe this shows our faith in Bolton as a place to expand our business and employ people in high technology jobs.

"If approved we want the machinery and skills housed at the site to make it a world leading dental laboratory for the future.

"We currently support 84 university students in the field and wish to strengthen that committment to education, training and research."

The plans will be considered by Bolton Council at a date to be decided.