WORCESTER needs to find at least another 75 acres of employment land even if sites such as the Tolladine Goods Yard are developed, according to a senior planner.
"Currently, our stock of commercial buildings is not meeting market demand," says Mark Middleton, the head of planning and economic development at Worcester City Council, in a report prepared for councillors tomorrow.
"Much of that demand will require greenfield sites. In the office sector, skills shortages mean that companies have to be able to offer attractive working conditions if they are to be able to attract and retain key staff."
A new Local Plan is being drafted, which will form a blueprint for Worcester's development after 2001.
But Mr Middleton has suggested looking for greenfield sites before the new plan is adopted.
His report says a 12-acre piece of land would be big enough to cater for business expansion while the Local Plan was under review.
Three sites could fit the bill, Mr Middleton added: Grove Farm; east of Nunnery Way - though Worcester City FC is interested in the site; and Earl's Court Farm, outside Dines Green.
Councillors will debate the issue when the technical services committee meets tomorrow at 7pm, in the Guildhall.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article