COUNCIL officials have hailed the creation of an 86-acre business park as a big step forward for Darlington.
Outline planning permission has been approved for the Faverdale East Business Park on greenfield land next to the industrial estate.
Phase one of the scheme, which is due to start in April, will provide 31,500 square metres of industrial space that can accommodate 880 jobs over the next seven years.
The scheme is the result of two years' preparation.
Economic studies undertaken by consultants working on behalf of Darlington Borough Council have provided evidence of demand for more business parks in the town.
The scheme is a key strand of the Darlington Gateway strategy, which is designed to provide quality land for enterprises and attract businesses and jobs to the town and the Tees Valley.
Councillor John Williams, leader of Darlington council, said: "We know there is a shortage of space that is readily available for businesses.
"This site will complement the office development at Morton Palms, so that Darlington has sufficient quality business parks to meet the needs of the local economy."
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 The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.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