McDonalds and Starbucks are among the brands lined up for a new commercial site planned in Dorset, which could create up to 250 jobs.
Property firm Godwin Developments has submitted an application to transform a near five-acre site in Bere Regis into a trading estate, which could feature up to eight two-storey units and four new drive thru and drive to restaurants.
The Woodbury Park scheme is earmarked for land off the Townsend Roundabout at the north-eastern point of the village, around six miles north west of Wareham.
Godwin has identified the site as a “key location” at the intersection of the A31 and A35, with around 27,000 vehicles passing by every day.
The proposed units could be two-storeyed, measuring 12,000 sq ft each, with flexibility to expand to larger floor spaces if prospective clients require.
In addition to Starbucks and McDonald’s, the UK’s first drive thru Popeyes restaurant has already been lined up to take space.
The new roles are anticipated to be primarily in retail, distribution and logistics, as well as services, manufacturing, technology and the creative industries, and will be a mix of full and part-time employment.
Godwin added that local people could also benefit from the inclusion of several electric vehicle charging points, the first in the area, as well as visitors and occupiers of the existing and new trade park units.
Development manager Claudine Tracey said: “The site’s high traffic flow, lack of similar retail offering close by, and shortage of similar industrial and logistics space make Woodbury Park a sought-after location for a range of brands - including food retail, manufacturing and distribution businesses.”
Planning director Nick Harrison added: “We believe our plans are well-considered to maximise the site’s potential, provide more choice and amenities to residents and visitors while also fitting in with local architecture and the requirements of the local plan."
Part of the development will involve improving access to the site, ensuring that those who work and visit the development from the village can travel more sustainably to it. A substantial part of the plot is also being retained as green open space which will support the biodiversity of the scheme.
The planning application has been prepared in partnership with planning consultants Pearce Planning, architects Ophir Architects and engineers HSP Consulting.
Like this story? Why not sign up to get the latest South West business news straight to your inbox.
