A NEW facility at Chandler’s Ford has been refurbished – indicating a growth in manufacturing in Hampshire.

Global contact lens-makers CooperVision has completed the 31,000 sq ft development in Speedwell Close following months of extensive works.

An old warehouse, acquired in March 2013, has been turned into a state-of-the-art production space.

An opening ceremony was held to mark the end of the works, which saw an official plaque unveiled.

Mark Foss, central engineering and facilities director for the UK, said: “It has been a great project to be part of and the team has been extremely committed to a very tight timeline in order to have the facility ready to receive the first piece of production equipment.

“The production facility at Speedwell Close will boast some of our newest high technology equipment with advanced levels of automation and will produce our latest products. It’s an exciting time for everyone and we look forward to seeing our latest products coming off the production line.”

Manufacturing is showing growth across Hampshire.

Last month building contractors Lakesmere spent £1.5m developing a centre in Winnall creating an extra 20 jobs for machine operatives and metal workers in the area, while PDC, The Plastics Development Consultancy, moved to bigger premises last year at the Sun Valley Business Park, also in Winnall.

At the end of last month motoring company Hendy Ford announced plans to move its sales team to new facilities at Swanwick Marina in Southampton.

The company invested £250,000 into the new space, which includes workshops, storage and boat lifting.