MORE than 600 workers at a Horwich factory face an agonising wait for a decision which could secure their jobs.

A three-and-a-half week public inquiry has ended into an application from Tesco and paper maker Fort James to swap land at Mansell Way, Horwich.

A planning inspector will now prepare a report for Deputy Prime Minister John Prescott, the Secretary of State for Environment, Transport and Regions, who will make a final decision.

Fort James has said that the Horwich factory could become its UK headquarters if it goes ahead.

But, if it is refused, it could put the future of the Horwich base in jeopardy. If the scheme is allowed, Tesco would build a new superstore on the other side of Mansell Way from its present site.

Cllr Jack Foster, chairman of Bolton's planning and environment committee, said: "I hope that the Secretary of State does make a decision as quickly as possible - there are a lot of jobs at stake here."

A Fort James spokesman said: "We have attended the inquiry over the last few weeks and, together with Tesco, have presented a strong argument for granting planning permission for the proposed development of Mansell Way, Horwich.

"We believe that the development of the existing Fort James site will help protect the future of one of Bolton's largest employers which has been operating in the area for over 50 years.

"We have been pleased with the level of support the application has received and hope that a decision will be made as quickly as possible so that Fort James will be able to develop its business and demonstrate the benefits the proposed development will bring."

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