A ‘STATE-OF-THE-ART’ office complex featuring a gym and wellbeing centre could breath new life into Runcorn.

An industrial site in Runcorn could be changed under the plans, which have been submitted by chemical manufacturer INOVYN.

INOYVN has had a fraught relationship with residents over the years, who have blamed its various operations for high levels of pollution and foul smells which often plague the town.

The company operate Runcorn’s large-scale chemical complex on the banks of the Mersey.

The proposed development site lies within the INOVYN Runcorn complex, and will create a 'high quality new gateway' into the site if the plans are approved.

The company is seeking to build a modern, four-storey office building on Bankes Lane, spanning almost 7000 sq m and accommodating around 450 staff.

The Grade A office will be built alongside a well-being centre, featuring a 'high quality' gym, fitness studio, changing  and shower facilities.

The plans are being put forward to improve efficiencies, employee communications and working practices across the site, and to improve the health and well-being of staff.

Bosses say the proposals will represent “significant new investment in the area and the business”, providing an “economic boost” to Halton as a whole.

In a planning statement the company said: “The proposed investment in this new office location is vote of confidence in the future of the site and underpins the importance of Runcorn to INVOY.

“The proposal will be a significant economic boost to Halton as exemplar development in a high profile location that will be an asset to the borough for years to come.”

The proposals will be considered by Halton Borough Council’s planning committee on Tuesday.

If plans for the new office space are approved, staff across various INOVYN sites bases would be re-deployed to the new, centralised office complex, while visitors and guests could have access to the gym.