Firm hits back at critics

manufacturer of patented PTFE hoses and export 80% of our products across the globe. We have been trading since 1973 and offer secure stable employment currently to almost 300 employees.

“The site at Bradley Park will enable Aflex to continue its expansion and offer a variety of skilled job opportunities for the people of Kirklees. Aflex are disappointed with the objections we have seen from local residents.

“During the public consultation event and all subsequent correspondence Aflex have been completely transparent.

“Aflex also invited members of the local residents’ association to our main factory at Sowerby Bridge to show them the nature of our business and processes. It would appear that some residents have confused the nature of our business.

“Aflex are not a manufacturer of PTFE (Teflon) material. We are not a plastic manufacturer. Aflex process the PTFE material into hose form. The inherent dangers of PTFE raw material production are simply not present in our processing.

“PTFE or Teflon is present in almost everybody’s homes. The most common use will be in the coating for cookware, typically frying pans. PTFE (Teflon) has been used for over 50 years as a coating for cookware products.

“Aflex are accredited ISO18001 and 14001 to further support our environmental and health and safety commitments. We are available to answer any concerns anybody may have regarding this project and can be contacted at info.aflex@wmftg. com”

Aflex has been making hoses in Calderdale for 40 years and had become a global operator, leading to it being bought by Watson-Marlow Fluid Technology Group, in 2016.

A Kirklees planning committee will decide whether permission is granted for the development.