NORTON - Three companies have spoken with Town Manager James Purcell about moving into General Motors' parts distribution plant when the embattled automaker leaves next year.

Purcell declined Thursday to identify the companies, but said they're all looking for space, and GM's "building and the geographical location seem to have some appeal."

All three are at different stages of their site search, he said, with one of the firms calling on Thursday.

"We've got people knocking on the door, lining up," Purcell told selectmen.

"They're all legitimate," Purcell said, although he added, "I can't tell you what the chances are." General Motors announced in June plans to close its operation in the Norton Commerce Center plant next August.

It occupies a 40,000-square-foot plant off South Washington Street.

Norton voters gave GM a 20-year tax increment financing deal for the facility in August 2004. GM opened it in December 2005.