Sheffield-based Gripple is set to expand again, with plans for a new £2 million factory to make high-tech assembly machines.

The firm — famous for its wire joining device — is set to build a ‘state of the art’ Gripple Automation facility on a derelict site beside the River Don (near the Veolia incinerator).

Its planning application shows a building that combines the firm’s red-brick heritage with cutting-edge features such as a green-energy plant and a living green external wall.

If the bid is approved, construction could start as soon as August.

Gripple Automation (www.grippleautomation.com) was set up four years ago to make machines that can assemble 60 Gripples in 1min with one operator.

It was soon building mini-production lines for other firms and expanded to 25 staff, outgrowing the premises on Hawk Street that it shares with sister company Loadhog.

Special projects manager Gordon Macrae said that a new factory is needed to keep pace with growth, and five jobs are set to be created initially.

“We wanted a flagship iconic building worthy of our reputation.

“It’s on the river and in a part of Sheffield that’s not been regenerated. We want it to be up there with the best.”