Healthcare group Assura is relocating from its Chester-based premises to Daresbury Park where it will take up 18,000 sq ft of office space.

The move is part of an expansion of operations, which will result in 90 new jobs, thereby growing the workforce to 220.

Assura, which owns GP surgeries around the country and operates a chain of pharmacies, is investing £750 million in its facilities and outlets until the end of 2009.

It paid £11 million for the newly-built office space at Daresbury Park.

Chief executive Richard Burrell told the Liverpool Daily Post: "This is a great deal for Assura because it enables the company to take on three times the floor space that we have in our existing accommodation in Chester."

He said the new premises will provide the group with an environment that "fits absolutely with our commitment to provide quality office premises for our staff".

Earlier this month, Assura revealed that revenue for the past 15 months is likely to be up on the previous financial year.

Operating profit for the 15-month period is expected to be more than £10 million.