Enabling works have started that will allow the first phase of major infrastructure changes to begin in November. This will see access to the new business park site created via a new roundabout off Cherry Orchard Way. The first section of the business park’s main "spine road" will also be built, along with utility and drainage works to serve the first development plots. Landscaping and the development of a sub-station will also be completed by Spring 2017.
Work to create ten new rugby pitches as part of the relocation of Westcliff Rugby Club (WRFC) is also underway. The new pitches are due to be available for WRFC in time for the 2017/18 season.
Recently, Kemsley LLP and Dedman Gray were appointed to market the development which is being taken forward jointly by Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and Henry Boot Developments Ltd.
Cllr John Lamb, Leader of Southend Council, said: “These major infrastructure works are vital to allow this game changing development to take place and this constitutes the first phase of construction of this exciting and vital project.
“This project is strategically important for both Southend-on-Sea and the Rochford District, and will bring in significant public and private sector investment and generate thousands of new jobs in over 1million square feet of attractive, modern business premises in the area around London Southend Airport. It will further boost the regeneration of the borough, cementing Southend-on-Sea as a place to live, visit and do business, and open up employment opportunities for local people in skilled sectors such as advanced engineering, aviation and medical technology.”
Leader of Rochford District Council, Cllr Terry Cutmore, said: “These infrastructure works form the first phase of a project which will ensure the Rochford District and Southend-on-Sea become renowned as a leading regional centre for the science, medical and technology sectors.
“This is an exciting moment as we will begin to see the £150m business park taking shape, with the creation of access routes and a new sub-station.
“Once completed, we envisage this development will create thousands of jobs, attract inward investment and bring lasting prosperity to the region.”
Background:
The site is located to the north-west corner of the airport and comprises circa 52 acres of developable land. Outline planning consent has already been achieved for 1 million square feet of advanced technology businesses, hi-specification office space, a new Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) Medical Technology (Med Tech) campus, an innovation centre and a hotel. The development is expected to attract occupiers from the medical, aviation, advanced engineering and manufacturing sectors.
Given Southend's extensive skill base, it is envisaged that ABP Southend will attract Med-Tech and advanced technology occupiers. Kemsley LLP, together with local agents Dedman Gray, will be working closely with Henry Boot Developments, Southend-on-Sea Borough Council and the Essex Investment Office to promote this important business park to local, national and international businesses.