Plans to expand an engineering firm in Stoke-on-Trent could create up to 20 jobs.

Goodwin Plc wants to build a new industrial unit at its site in Hanley, next to the existing Ivy House Foundry.

The scheme also includes the retention of two temporary units, as well as the development of a new car park and internal road.

According to Goodwin's planning application, the expansion would strengthen the firm's market position and create 15 to 20 'highly skilled' jobs in areas such as radiography, pattern making and maintenance.

The application, which is part-retrospective, with some works already under way, has been recommended for approval by Stoke-on-Trent City Council.

Most of the 2.2 hectare development site is previously developed hardstanding, but it also includes a parcel of open space running next to Botteslow Street, which was sold to Goodwin by the council.

The council has received one objection to the plans, which raises concerns over the loss of green space. But planning officers say it would be difficult to refuse the application on these grounds.

The report to the planning committee states: "An open space assessment has been submitted and demonstrates that green space deficiencies exist within this ward when measured against the standards set out in the council's greenspace strategy. There is thus a broad presumption against the loss of open space here.

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"However, given that the land was sold by the council as opposed to being retained as formal public open space, it is exceptionally difficult in this circumstance to resist the development – and the other benefits which would flow – on the basis of the loss of said space."

Goodwin has agreed to make a £40,000 contribution towards the upkeep of existing open space in the locality. Officers say that while the loss of open space weighs against the application, this contribution would provide 'appropriate mitigation'.

The proposed new building would be 95 metres long and 16 metres high, and would be finished in galvanised steel sheeting with white plastic roofing. A total of 197 parking spaces would be provided, including the retention of 25 existing spaces.

According to the report, the development 'represents the effective use of a brownfield site', and would support the continued growth of a local employer. Members of the planning committee will consider the application when they meet on Wednesday, 29 April.