RECORD levels of investment have been recorded in Warrington during the past 12 months.

Delegates at the seventh annual Warrington Property Review were told that Warrington's commercial property business achievements had been among the best ever.

Clr Brian Axcell, from the borough council's executive, said: "This event has been very successful for a number of years and we are delighted that it encourages so much interest.

"Showcasing these achievements can only serve to promote Warrington's economic prosperity, encourage current business and attract new business to the area.

"Warrington is continuing as a major destination for profitable investment and has a wide range of prestigious new developments which all contribute to emphasising that the town is a great place to live and work."

Hosted at The Pyramid the report, compiled by BE Group in conjunction with the council, included a number of guest speakers such as the council's head of economic development Dr Carsten Kressel.

Highlights in the report include:

l Industrial sites continue to be in high demand with the Big Apple in Stretton acquired by users and the Eagle Park fully developed.

l 2005 saw the largest take-up of industrial space in Warrington for three years

l National and regional developers continued to be attracted to Warrington

l The Golden Square Shopping Centre development is on target for completion in March 2007

l The town continues to be a popular place to live with the most housing completions since records began in 1998.

gdunning@guardiangrp.co.uk