Major employer rushes forward Nottinghamshire megaproject that could create 4,000 jobs

A major employer is urging forward a Nottinghamshire megaproject which could when finished could create 4,000 jobs. Plans have been accelerated for a huge new logistics and warehousing park off the A1 on the edge of Worksop, with new planning documents submitted to Bassetlaw District Council.

Caddick Developments, which wants to build up to eight large distribution and industrial units on more than 100 hectares of farmland, says it has brought the project forward as a "specific major occupier" needs its distribution facility to be complete by late 2027. Under the proposals one of the units, which is meant for this "firmly committed" occupier, will be built first while the rest of the development will be finalised at a later date.

Caddick argued the expedited two-stage construction of the site would allow the area to benefit sooner from the significant economic benefits, infrastructure improvements, and job creation related to it. The new business park would neighbour Manton Wood Enterprise Park, where DHL trade from part of failed retailer Wilko's headquarters, and also be close to Clumber Park - a country park run by the National Trust.

Fears had been raised during local consultations that the huge complex would reduce green spaces and impact wildlife. Caddick's planners argued tree removals would be limited to those needed to construct a new road to the development from the A57 and that new vegetation would be planted to replace what was lost.

They added Clumber Park, which is Grade I listed, would not be impacted by the vast new structures as the woodlands acted as a barrier between the site and the historical estate. The project would provide a high-quality hub for leading businesses, planning documents submitted by the scheme's designers said.

The site, which is the largest employment-focused area allocated within Bassetlaw District Council's masterplan, could be capable of providing significant economic growth for both Worksop and the wider district and strengthen its role in the logistics sector, they added.

In a planning document, submitted to the council on behalf of applicant Caddick Developments, architects FPCR said: "The proposed development will provide state-of-the-art facilities that prioritise efficiency, flexibility, and scalability.

"With a focus on delivering high quality infrastructure, the proposed development will support both the logistical demands of its users and the broader goals of operational excellence, to deliver a regionally significant centre for employment." The planning application is pending consideration by Bassetlaw District Council and will be decided at a later date.