A SERVICE to give businesses a helping hand has been launched at Ellesmere Port Library.

Cheshire West and Chester Council’s Business Information Service is providing a resource for new and existing businesses throughout the North West and across the country.

Based at Ellesmere Port Library, it provides bespoke information, including market research, mailing lists, product sourcing and credit checking.

Cllr Herbert Manley, executive member for prosperity, said: “Accurate information is vital for enabling informed decision-making.

“Our Business Information Service is helping new businesses as they make the initial decisions on where to locate and establish businesses as they are looking for new markets and opportunities to expand and diversify.”

Cllr Justin Madders said: “The Business Information Service handles more than 1,000 requests each year, with many repeat business clients including the council’s own regeneration teams who regularly consult the service on behalf of new and relocating companies.”

One of the regular clients using the service, Jeremy Pert of Commercial and Supply Chain Services, based in Staffordshire, said: “Their ability to consistently respond with information at their fingertips at speed with recognised data sources takes so much chasing and hunting away that they are a crucial support to us.”

The Business Information Service can be contacted by telephoning 0151 3374693 or emailing bisep@cheshirewestandchester.gov.uk. Most enquiries are free, with charges made for premium services. Free quotes are available.