Plans lodged for business park aimed at small and growing companies

The Nano Park company has urged Kirklees Council to approve its plans for a new business park near Lindley to help small and growing companies in the district.

A planning application was recently submitted for flexible business space on the site of the Wappy Springs pub next to the M62.

The developer believes there is “massive demand” for this type of space following full take up of its other business accommodation in Bradford, Leeds and Wakefield – with the latter two not even completed yet.

It says the scheme will boost the local economy by up to £8m and attract around 100 jobs to the area.

The site lies in green belt, but “very special circumstances” are being cited as reasons for approval, including the lack of provision and the need for smaller, flexible units.

Edward Marshall, a director of the Nano Park Company, said: “This type of space is severely lacking in the area and will allow existing companies to grow, as well as attracting new businesses from around the region.

“Even at this early stage we have been incredibly encouraged with the level of interest from firms and would urge the council to back these plans for the many economic and business benefits that they will deliver.

“The success of our other sites shows this new type of space is proving very popular and other councils have really embraced the concept.”