A successful business forum has attracted more than 400 local businesses interested in working on ScottishPower's proposed gas storage development in Byley, Cheshire.

The two-day forum held this week at Winnington Hall, Northwich, was attended by hundreds of North West companies, with many more also registering by post. The businesses represented employed a combined total workforce of around 6,000.

The forum was attended by a variety of service providers ranging from building construction, engineering and transport through to support services such as security and IT.

ScottishPower Development Manager Bev Ireland said: "Of the overall £60 million value of the project, we expect 50% will be spent locally, and we are encouraged that so many businesses are supportive and keen to be involved.

"The forum enabled us to see exactly what goods and services are available in the area, and for local companies to learn more about the project."

ScottishPower is seeking to create an underground gas storage facility with an above-ground plant at the former Cranage airfield in Byley.

The project, which is the subject of a planning application to Cheshire County Council, will create 180 jobs during construction and 10 permanent jobs, when the facility is available.

All the companies registering an interest at the forum will be kept up to date with the project's progress and invited to tender at the right time.

Independent studies predict a deficit in gas supply to consumer demand from 2005 onwards, which is also factored into energy prices. There is little gas storage in the North West, therefore the region is dependent on importing gas stored from the East Coast. Local storage services will lower energy costs to local industry allowing them in turn to reduce operating costs and compete more efficiently with competitors. This will help secure the future of energy intensive users in the North West region.