New homes by Wilson Bowden to create 2,500 jobs in Leicester

Wilson Bowden Developments has been granted planning permission by Communities Secretary Eric Pickles for the construction of 250 new homes in Leicester, as part of a major mixed-use development, following a public local inquiry and appeal by the housebuilder earlier this year.

The employment led development is set to create 2,500 jobs in Leicester and the surrounding areas over the next 10 years.

The 30 hectare strategic employment site will be located to the west of Glenfield on the north-western fringe of Leicester just off Junction 21a of the M1.

Nick Richardson, managing Director of Wilson Bowden Developments, said: "We have been working on this for some time and the site is one of the best opportunities for employment land in the region. It's very pleasing to see that Secretary of State has accepted the arguments we've made about the importance of economic development in this area and the impact it will have on employment and growth."

The mixed commercial scheme will include 80,000sqft of office space as well as 1.1msqft of warehousing and industrial units, which will significantly reinforce Wilson Bowden Developments' portfolio in the area.

In addition to the commercial offer, the scheme will also feature 250 new family homes as well as a new local centre, creating a sustainable location and development mix.

Martin Traynor, chief executive of the Leicestershire Chamber ha warmly welcomed the decision.

He commented: "I am delighted that the Secretary of State recognises the importance of providing opportunities for economic development. In Leicester and Leicestershire we are desperately short of good quality employment land in key locations. Opening up sites such as Glenfield Park will attract new businesses to the area and provide new space for local companies looking to expand."

The decision comes after successive studies identified the shortfall of employment land in the area and Wilson Bowden's knowledge of the market requirements. It also follows the emphasis placed on economic development at a national level coming through the Statement for Growth and the recently published Draft National Planning Framework.

David Ward, planning director for Wilson Bowden Developments Limited, said: "We are delighted with the decision. The need for a high quality employment site to serve the City has been evident for many years, and we believe the decision reflects the importance now being given to encouraging economic development. The requirement for a strategic employment site has been fully acknowledged by both Leicester City and Blaby Council in its plan-making processes but, until now, a site has not been identified. However, this decision now gives the City's businesses a great location to expand into, as well as providing a high quality location for new investment and growth."