£1.5 million boost for Netherton Industrial Estate

Feb 3 2010 by Andrew Weston, Wishaw Press

£1.5 million boost for Netherton Industrial Estate

NETHERTON has received a possible £1.5 million business boost with the news that plans for a new industrial development have taken a step forward.

Over £1 million is already in place to transform some derelict land at Netherton Industrial Estate and another £450,000 could be on its way from European funding.

It would be good news for small to medium-sized firms as the council-backed plan is to build some business units and bring more jobs to Wishaw.

Councillor Anthony Clarke, Convener of Property with North Lanarkshire Council, said: “We know from our research that there is a demand for modern, flexible industrial space so this development will fill a gap in the market and provide practical, quality accommodation for local companies.”

A feasibility study carried out by the council identified significant demand for small business units that would suit developing small to medium-sized (SME) businesses, particularly in Wishaw, and this has influenced the type of premises to be created.

The council are providing £345,190 from their capital programme, with £750,000 from the Vacant and Derelict Land Fund. And they have also applied for £449,810 from the European Regional Development Fund and are waiting on a decision.

Convener of Regeneration with the council, Councillor Tom Maginnis, added: “The council are keen to identify ways of supporting local businesses, particularly in this difficult economic situation, and to redevelop areas of vacant and derelict land. The Netherton Industrial Estate project will rejuvenate a brownfield site and the existing industrial area, boosting the local economy and bringing in a long-term income for the council.”

The council currently own most of the 0.37 hectare industrial estate and the existing properties vary in size, age and condition. These buildings would be demolished to make way for the new facilities.

Demolition of part of the site has been completed, and tenders for the contractors to design and build the industrial units are being prepared. The planned £1.5 million development will create accessible, affordable accommodation for new and existing businesses.