Jobs promised as new business park between Peterborough and Whittlesey approved

Large numbers of local jobs are expected to be created after the application for the former Churchfield Farm Equestrian Centre, just south of the A605, was given the go ahead by Fenland District Council.

The three options for the business park are: a single distribution warehouse, multiple commercial units (for light industry and general industry), or a selling off of the plots on an individual basis.

A second application with firmed up details for the business park - including how many jobs are expected to be created - will need to be submitted and approved before works can begin.

However, according to a planning statement submitted on behalf of applicants King’s Dyke Business Park Ltd: “The development will allow existing local businesses to have the opportunity to relocate to better premises as well as attracting new businesses to the area.

“Having a number of smaller units will serve to attract new businesses looking to establish themselves in Peterborough and Cambridgeshire with the opportunity of a lower level of rent and start-up cost than might be applicable in other parts of the region.”

It adds: “Employment generation is a key driver for this application and the creation of local jobs will be welcomed in Whittlesey and will provide a significant boost to the economy.

“Peterborough is currently lacking a sufficient amount of available storage and distribution warehousing and employment space. The proximity of Whittlesey, which is located around 1.5 miles west of Peterborough, makes it a logical location for commercial development which can support businesses located in both Whittlesey and Peterborough.”

The equestrian centre is no longer in use as some of its land was compulsory purchased to allow for a new road and bridge to be built over the Ely to Peterborough railway line.

The £32 million project to alleviate traffic is due to be finished by December 2022.

The land for the new business park is 23.9 hectares in size, roughly the equivalent of three football pitches.

Several existing buildings will need to be knocked down as part of the project.

King’s Dyke Business Park Ltd was set up on February 22, 2019, according to Companies House, with its business listed as “buying and selling of own real estate”.