A manufacturing firm is to create 50 new jobs in Co Offaly.

Grant Engineering is to invest €7m, as part of a major expansion plan for its facilities in Birr.

The company, which manufactures heating appliances, says the investment is in response to increased demand for its products.

The expansion will increase the size of its current facility and include a state of the art innovation centre, an extension to the manufacturing facility, a customer services centre and a training school.

Building works are set commence in the coming months, with completion over the next two years.

Grant Engineering founder Stephen Grant said: "Over the past recent years we have continued to grow our business, and this investment will allow us to continue to increase capacity and expand into new markets and to develop new products".

"It also reinforces our commitment to innovation, the local community and the local economy", he added.

At peak season, Grant Engineering says it will employ over 320 people in Ireland and 70 in the UK.

The 50 new jobs will include a range of full-time and part-time roles, ranging from operative to highly-skilled engineering positions.

They are being supported by Enterprise Ireland.