DESPITE a set back in the development of Skipton retail park on part of the site of Guyson's international factory, the future of the £6.5 million development was "extremely optimistic," developers say.

Opus North, the leading Yorkshire development and investment company, is spearheading the scheme on the 35,000 sq.ft. site off Keighley Road, Skipton, which recently saw the DIY giant Wickes pull out of the project.

Andrew Duncan, managing director of Opus North, said: “This was not a reflection of the park itself, but of the downturn in the DIY sector. Wickes’ troubles have been well-documented."

The DIY company had to offset soaring costs from the Brexit-hit pound as it posted a 4.5 percent fall in half-year profits. A number of stores had closed.

“It is vital to stress that our Skipton park, which features a 100-space car park, remains an extremely attractive proposition to retailers. We are experiencing high levels of interest from a number of household names, including Pets at Home, and hope to make an announcement about new occupiers in the near future.

"This sizeable investment will bring more jobs to the area and more choice to shoppers. Work will start on site once new occupiers are signed up,” said Mr Duncan.

The Guyson factory would be extended and improved under the plan and the company managing director, James Thompson, said the park would secure it's future.

He said: “Guyson will celebrate its 80th year in business next year and with three sons now in the business we are making the transition from what our grandfather started to the fourth generation.

“A multi-million pound reinvestment generated from the retail park development will enable us create a world-leading new facility fitted with the latest manufacturing technology.

"This reinvestment linked with our international growth strategy will create new job opportunities and future proof our Skipton operations for years to come”