A FIRM could provide a jobs boost for Oswestry if plans for its new national headquarters go ahead.

Oswestry firm Aico Ltd had applied to Shropshire council for permission to build a new UK base at near the Maesbury Road junction with the A483, which could increase its staff levels to 70 people.

The company, which makes smoke, heat and CO detectors, employs 55 and envisages that staff numbers will rise to 60 - 40 of whom will be on site - when the building opens, with a maximum of 70.

A report by architects DGA said that the company had "reached maximum usage" of its existing premises on the Mile Oak Industrial Estate.

If approved, the new headquarters will include office space, a training centre, auditorium, warehouse and parking.

It will also include a "trim trail" and outside areas for staff and visitor recreation and exercise, as well as a pond which will serves as a wildlife habitat.

Orchards, indigenous tree species and rough grasses are also part of the proposal.

The report said that site is adjacent to one of the main routes into Oswestry and "will present a landmark building of good design quality at this important 'gateway'".

It added: "The hard and soft landscape design is strong and of a high quality providing staff and visitors with an opportunity to enjoy the extensive green areas the undeveloped parts of the site have to offer.

"The site will provide an excellent location and ‘new home’ for Aico Ltd. It will help to ensure the continued success of this dynamic and progressive company within the local area and facilitate the creation of much-needed additional employment opportunities."

Public and staff areas throughout the development will be set generally level. A passenger lift is incorporated to provide full accessibility throughout the building.

The building would be fully compliant with building regulations and key materials and surfaces would contrast in terms of colour to aid visually impaired building users, the report said.

Car parking and wheelchair access spaces would be provided on site for staff and visitors.

When the auditorium is to be used at capacity a coach drop off point is provided allowing guests to be transported to site remotely from other locations therefore reducing the requirement for large areas of car parking.

There will also be secure cycle storage will be included within the building envelope.

There are good footpath connections from the town centre, a dedicated cycle route adjacent to Maesbury

Road and a bus routes pass alongside and close to the site.

Shropshire Council will consider the application at a later date.