MORE than 300 jobs will come to Westbury when a paper bag firm moves its factory to the West Wilts Trading Estate.

Welton Bibby and Baron, the main employer in Midsomer Norton, Somerset, is moving to west Wiltshire to make use of a bigger site as the company expands.

It will take over the former Tesco distribution warehouse, which was used by electricals supplier Comet until it closed in 2009.

The move, which will be completed within 18 months, has brought joy in Westbury but disappointment in Somerset.

Westbury mayor David Windess said: “This is great news for the town, as I believe they will be creating new jobs in the local area, even though they are bringing some people with them.

“It will also benefit other businesses from trade and people moving to the area. It is just good that another business site is occupied and not standing vacant.

“The industrial estates around the town certainly seem to be holding their own at the moment, it is just a shame that the same isn’t true in the town itself.”

Westbury and Wiltshire councillor Mike Cuthbert-Murray said: “I think this is a fantastic opportunity for Westbury people. It is obviously sad that the company wasn’t able to find larger premises in Midsomer Norton, but Westbury welcomes them.

“It will be a boost for the town just when we really need it.”

Unite, the union representing workers at the factory, said Midsomer Norton would be “devastated” by the news.

Regional officer Martin Hodges said: “When we do sit down with the company, we will be making sure that there is as little impact on the individual as we can.

“The economy of the town will be quite devastated by the news.”

Westbury Chamber of Commerce treasurer and town councillor Sue Ezra said: “Hopefully, it will encourage more large businesses to come to the estate and to Westbury itself.

“It should provide plenty of opportunities for local businesses, from people moving locally or even just commuting to the site, let alone any jobs which might become available.”

The company, founded in 1858, is Europe’s largest paper bag manufacturer and makes bags for dozens of top firms, including KFC, John Lewis, Marks and Spencer, PG Tips and Typhoo.