THE latest phase of development at Chorley Business and Technology Centre has been officially opened by Trade Minister Ian McCartney.

The minister toured the centre last Friday morning and listened to a presentation about its work and speeches by representatives of its major shareholders before performing the opening.

CBTC is a limited company partnership between public, private and voluntary sectors designed to offer managed workspace for developing companies.

Though a self-supporting and independent organisation, CBTC is part of the wider long-term package to regenerate the whole Royal Ordnance site in Chorley and has received substantial funding form the European Regional Development Fund.

Speaking after carrying out the official opening, Mr McCartney said: "The Government is implementing a series of innovative, comprehensive and cohesive policies designed to promote small businesses which provide so much of our nation's wealth.

"This week alone we have seen the introduction of a new £100m Small Business Service which will act as a strong voice for small businesses, a new 10 per cent rate of corporation tax and a new tax credit on research and development for smaller and medium sized firms which will be introduced next year."

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