A TOP local business is packing its bags and moving -- down the street.

EK Williams has been granted permission to build a three-storey office block at the junction of Mill Street and Cricketer's Way on Pavilion Square, Westhoughton.

Its prestigious new office will replace its existing base, on Victoria Street, which has been subject to a housing application as part of the transfer.

The application involves the construction of seven houses and eight apartments. It also involves the demolition of the existing offices of the national company.

The local workforce now stands at 100, compared to just six in 1980.

Heather Carr, a director of EK Williams, said: "We wish to extend our premises to a prestigious office. We knew we couldn't do that in the building we currently occupy."

"It is a beautiful site and we are anxious to get started. This opportunity to expand in Westhoughton will bring more jobs to the town," she added.

Local residents have been consulted by the firm and no objections were raised over the housing scheme.

Westhoughton Town Council approved the plan on the grounds that it is the redevelopment of a previous industrial site.