First planning applications submitted for new business park

A planning application for four business units at the complex, located on the outskirts of Westbury, has been submitted to Wiltshire Council, who will now decide whether or not to approve them.

Bath-based HPH Ltd, who are behind the 35-acre scheme, believe the park will help relieve the pressure on the industrial market which has built up over the last two years.

Chris Wordsworth, Development Director at HPH Ltd, said: “It is exciting to see Hawke Ridge take shape after years of planning. We are fully committed to the scheme, which we believe is pivotal in encouraging existing and future business growth in Wiltshire.

“We are already in talks with several business who are considering Hawke Ridge for their new home.

“Hawke Ridge Business Park will be Wiltshire’s premier employment hub providing modern, efficient, fit-for-purpose commercial facilities with the potential to support more than 1,000 jobs.

"With the road infrastructure now fully installed, development of the site is immediately deliverable and this planning application will enable us to respond at short notice to a variety of occupier requirements."

The £50 million complex, when complete, will provide more than half a million square feet of facilities for businesses.

Alder King, along with Bath-based Carter Jonas, are working with HPH to market the park.

Alison Williams, Associate Partner at Carter Jonas, believes demand is likely to increase.

She said: “Although the recent Brexit vote has caused some uncertainty in the market place the Wiltshire industrial market is renowned for its resilience.

“Following a significant decline of applicants immediately after the Brexit result, we are now experiencing an upturn despite the forthcoming holiday period. The majority of these are from well established companies wishing to expand and who have been planning a move following growth during 2014 and 2015."