Worksop: Major plans which could bring 1,200 jobs and £100m investment approved

Outline planning consent for the large-scale logistics scheme was granted by a planning committee on Wednesday night at Worksop Town Hall.

The site is located near Manton, to the south east of Worksop on the A57, opposite the Wilko head office and distribution centre, 1.5 miles from the A1/A57 junction.

The development will also include a new access from the A57 trunk road to service it.

Jo White, deputy leader of Bassetlaw Council and cabinet member for regeneration, said: “This is fantastic news and not only will this bring a welcome jobs boost but it shows that big businesses are prepared to invest in north Notts.”

“Bassetlaw can boast easy access to the country’s two main arterial transport routes, in the M1 and A1M, and businesses are waking up to the fact that we have excellent travel links and connectivity that will allow companies to compete and thrive on a national scale.”

Phase one of the 130 acre site will include 60 acres being planned and developed as an industrial/logistics scheme for general industrial, storage and distribution uses. The site will be offered on a design-and-build basis and will target occupiers seeking buildings from 50,000 to one million sq ft.

Speaking at the planning committee meeting, councillor for Worksop south east, Josie Potts, said: “This development could provide jobs not only for my ward but for the wider Worksop area.

“The area has seen some investment but much more is needed.

“I have seen the devastation caused when Manton Colliery closed which ripped the heart of the community. We need these jobs.”

Network Space, the north west based commercial real estate group, secured the outline planning consent for the major project.

Wilko objected to the plans with regards to the access road, stating that they had experienced ‘several near misses’ with their junction, which is similar to the one proposed. The National Trust also objected due to the potential impact on heritage assets, but these were deemed ‘negligible’.

Managing director of Network Space Developments, Stephen Barnes, said: ““Having worked closely with Bassetlaw District Council to deliver this consent we are delighted to now take forward a significant logistics and industrial scheme in a great location that will provide exciting local employment opportunities. The site is available immediately with minimal off site works required.”

Coun White added: “Any development that will bring investment to our region and boost the jobs market will be welcomed in Bassetlaw, should the planning conditions be right.

“The council’s regeneration and investment and planning teams have worked closely with Network Space to provide them with support and guidance through this initial part of the development.”