Plans for £3.2m employment development submitted

A planning application to build a high quality commercial workspace scheme that could see up to 100 jobs being created in Plymouth has been submitted by the Council.

Up to £3.2 million could be invested in the second phase of the development at Langage Business Park as part of the Council’s ongoing pro-active approach to attracting business.

The scheme will create a total of 30,000 sq ft of flexible, commercial workspace ready for businesses to move into and follows on from the hugely successful completion of the Phase 1 scheme.

Phase 1 was completed in 2015 and the entire 30,000 sq ft  high quality scheme was quickly snapped up by local and expanding up-market food producer Dartmouth Foods Ltd.

Leader of Plymouth City Council Councillor Ian Bowyer said: “We’re delighted that the first phase was snapped up so quickly as it shows there is a real appetite from businesses to come here or expand, but they lack the right premises.

“This approach is paying off. By investing in building business premises, we are helping companies as they can move into bespoke premises, generate wealth and jobs which is great for families living in and around Plymouth.

"More work means people have more money spend, which is good for other city businesses. It also means that in the long run, the potential income from rent and rates the council will receive will help contribute to towards providing vital services for Plymouth.”

Plymouth has the highest concentration of manufacturing employment of any city south of the Midlands, but there continues to be a shortage of industrial and commercial space to suit current needs.

This latest phase of development will include a diverse range of unit sizes, all constructed to a very high quality and incorporating sustainable features to reduce running costs. The units will be available to a wide range of businesses from start-ups to expanding local and national businesses.

It is anticipated that up to100 jobs could be created on site once the project is complete – but the scheme also spells good news for the construction industry and its supply chain during the construction phase.

The planning application has been submitted to South Hams District Council and a decision is expected late Spring.

If the scheme gets the go-ahead construction could start on site before the autumn. and the new premises could be available from as early as Spring 2018.

Any interested parties should contact the Council’s Land & Property Team on landandproperty@plymouth.gov.uk or call 01752 304161.