A SAFER form of protective polythene lining for reservoirs, waste tips and new housing sites is being developed in North Yorkshire.

Industrial Textiles and Plastics (ITP), of York, has won a DTI-sponsored Smart award to improve the chemical resistance of its polythene sheeting.

The company supplies the sheeting to companies for use in construction, decontamination and landfill projects.

ITP received help to secure the Smart Award from Business Link North Yorkshire innovation and technology advisor Roger Benson.

The company, established in 1990, has 12 staff producing a wide range of reinforced liners to prevent potentially lethal gases, such as methane and radon, from infiltrating buildings.

ITP managing director Marc van der Voort, said: "This is a very exciting development and could lead to significant expansion for ITP.

"There is a real need for improved chemical resistance in large projects, such as decontaminating old industrial sites for new housing.

"We are grateful to Business Link North Yorkshire for its help in securing the Smart award."

Roger Benson has now helped 72 companies secure more than £3m in Smart Awards in the past three-and-a-half years.

He said: "I am delighted to have helped ITP win the award and hope it leads to their rapid growth and success.

Further details on the help and advice available from Business Link North Yorkshire, can be obtained by calling (01904) 686000 or by logging on to the web site at www.here4bsusiness.co.uk