South Gloucestershire Council has recently purchased two sites in Yate to 'ensure local business can continue to thrive.'

The two include the Whirlpool UK Appliances Ltd site on Station Road and 26 North Road which is occupied by Yate Disposables Ltd.

These investments in by the council have been made on a sale and leaseback agreement with the current occupiers so that they can continue to occupy the sites and trade as normal.

Promoting sustainable inclusive communities, infrastructure and growth is a priority for the council and to ensure that Yate continues to provide a range of employment for residents to live and work locally.

Cabinet Member for Corporate Resources Councillor Ben Burton said: “We are very pleased to have been able to make these recent purchases to ensure local business can continue to thrive in Yate.

“The Council’s long-term aspiration is to be an enabler of regeneration. Owning land at key locations in the area will ensure that we have a degree of control over its future use, should the current occupiers wish to relocate in the future.”

The Lib Dems are asking for an economic development plan for Yate, following the announcement of the purchases.

Councillor Claire Young, Leader of the Liberal Democrats on South Gloucestershire Council, said: “This site has been at the heart of manufacturing in Yate for many decades. It’s an important provider of jobs for local people and has a significant place in the heritage of the town. It’s vital that the community are fully involved in planning for its future.”