NCS managing director Greg Milton said: "We are delighted to have acquired this excellent site, thus enabling the continued expansion of our busy timber pallet manufacturing and export packaging division."

St Modwen acquired an 18-acre site in 2008 and has since worked with the local authority to create a mixed-use property.

Regional director Michelle Taylor said the firm was exploring different uses for the balance of the site.

"We are keen to increase our investment in the key site which is an important gateway into Ellesmere Port town centre," said Taylor.

NCS declined to comment further when contacted by Packaging News.

The firm produces timber packaging for both home trade and export markets from three sites in Merseyside and Cheshire.