A major international firm has become the latest company to move into an expanding business park.

Car Care Plan Ltd, a division of the world's biggest vehicle company, General Motors, has taken up 18,000sq ft of the Mid-Point site in Thornbury.

The announcement coincides with the start of the second phase of development at the 20-acre site, pictured right.

Car Care specialises in the administration and insurance of vehicle warranties. Managing director Tim Heavisides, said: "We have always been leaders in our industry and our move to purpose built offices will ensure we maintain that position. Customers and staff will benefit greatly from the excellent communication links and a modern, pleasant environment.

"This is our silver anniversary and I can think of no better way to celebrate than moving to this exciting development."

Outline planning permission has also been given for 173,300sq ft of facilities proposed by KeyLand, property arm of the Kelda Group.

The project involves three phases, the first a call centre for Kelda subsidiary The Loop, and a 48-bedroom Travelodge. The second stage includes infrastructure work linking the business park to an adjoining site containing the Odeon cinema and Indigo health club.

Richard Tovey of project managers Gregory Properties said: "Call centre occupiers in particular are attracted by staff catchment with 1.2m people living within 30 minute drive."

The developments back up a report claiming an economic slowdown had failed to halt the growth of business parks.

A report by property advisers GVA Grimley said despite a faltering in the technology sector, especially with American-owned companies, the Yorkshire business park market was still buoyant.

Spokesman Ian Elsworth said: "The ongoing shortage of office space in Leeds city centre ensures that demand for out of town space remains high."