AT least 50 new jobs are set to be created in Worcester under a multi-million pound development by the city's Lea & Perrins factory.

The scheme will include a snazzy new glass-fronted HQ for Fortis Living, transforming acres of vacant land off Great Western Avenue.

It will also result in a second 1,300 square foot building complex being erected just yards away, which will be marketed to companies.

If Worcester City Council gives it the green light, it will see the current tatty site overhauled, with green trees and a tranquil new landscape separating both new buildings.

Fortis Living say the second building will be able to accommodate around 50 jobs once it is full, with its own new HQ also allowing the organisation to expand.

The land in question is part of Central Park, much of which has been going to waste for years.

Developers have tried to build homes there in the past only to be refused planning permission, with council chiefs insisting it should be used for job creation.

Fortis Living is currently based at Progress House, adjacent to the site, and says it would still want to keep its old building and operate from two sites if the new HQ gets the nod.

The second development could also prove a money-spinner, given its location close to Shrub Hill railway station and the city centre.

Worcester News:

A planning application has been submitted to the city council, with a decision expected by July.

The scheme is the work of Birmingham-based Lucas Architects, which has produced a 'masterplan' for the site to try and get it approved.

A report by the firm says the design work is aimed at "reflecting the character of the local area", given its industrial heritage.

Guy Weston, Fortis chief executive, said: "Together with our existing Midland Road office, the proposed new development will deliver the space we need to position our entire team in the same area.

"Our priority is giving our residents and customers a great service and this new office will give our staff an environment in which they can do exactly that."

Worcester News:

"Moving into a modern building and rationalising our office network will enable us to make cost savings that we can reinvest into existing homes, services and communities and into building new affordable homes in the local area."

The new Fortis Living HQ would also be around 1,300 square foot in size, and be two storeys.