A NEW base for businesses starting up in Bolton could be built at a former builders yard.

The proposed development at the old Jewson site off Lever Street is looking to offer start-up businesses "much-needed" storage space.

The "locally-driven project" is the work of Bridgeman Investments which is diversifying its property portfolio and help up-and-coming businesses in the area.

Planning agent Sohail Musa of SMS Architecture revealed that there are already several businesses lined up to move into the proposed Great Lever site.

He said: "End users would likely be retailers with an online presence. These could be businesses who use social media platforms and online sales for their primary sales.

"These types of businesses are on the increase and there is a shortage of affordable storage spaces for small businesses to use and grow from."

The proposal for the site is to retain two of the existing buildings, convert one building into four new units and demolish the remaining buildings to make way for 18 new "light industrial" units.

In total, the development would offer around 22 individual units, each of around 100 to 120 square metres.

Local businesses who have shown an interest in leasing the units so far include Luxury Designer and natural fragrance candle company FM Essences and Oils, electrical goods firm Fuse Volt and online clothing retailer Alzi Clothing.

Mr Musa added: "The site is ideal for such a project and the applicants are excited to see it through."

Robert Downes, development manager at the Federation of Small Businesses, agreed that this part of the retail sector is growing.

He welcomed the move to accommodate online businesses and as well as the investment in the Bolton area.

But he believes the space could also be used by existing high street stores looking to expand their online presence.

He said: "There's no doubt that this kind of business model is currently taking off. The pressure on high street retailers is because of the rise of e-tailers. I think all businesses will need to look online."