Work on the Model Farm Enterprise Park in Ross-on-Wye is set to start within the year, following today's planning application approval by Herefordshire Council's Planning and Regulatory Committee.
The 15 hectare site, positioned to the east of Ross-on-Wye in the Hildersley area, will provide up to 300,000 square feet of new commercial floorspace and up to 1,000 jobs. The business park is also situated next to excellent road links, including immediate access to the M50 and the A449 which links to the nearby M4 corridor.
The hybrid planning application approved by the planning committee includes full plans for the access, drainage, landscaping and internal roads. Outline consent is also provided for a number of indicative plot areas that will be suitable for general and light industrial units and offices, with some limited scope for storage and distribution uses.
The planning approval follows the council's allocation of £7m funding in the capital programme, agreed by Full Council on 26 January 2018.
Councillor David Harlow, Cabinet Member for Economy and Communications, said: "The business park is excellent news for Ross-on-Wye and the wider economy of the county. The development will enable local businesses to expand into new premises, and the good road links will also attract businesses from outside the county, bringing high value jobs to Herefordshire."
Councillor Harry Bramer, Cabinet Member for Contracts and Assets, said: "The planning approval quickly following the funding announcement allows the council to make plans to rapidly implement the scheme, making land available for businesses within the next year. We are contacting local and regional businesses about the opportunity to locate at Model Farm and we are pleased to hear that there is a high demand for industrial land in the area."
John Campion re-elected as West Mercia PCC
New PCC Jane Mudd vows to champion youth and social justice
Herefordshire Council ends roads contract with Balfour Beatty
Appeal to find missing Monmouthshire man
Man arrested in connection with stabbing incident
New Food and Drink group launched at online event
