An Old Dairy Transformation?

SIXTY jobs could be created in March with plans to build a total of 18 new business units across the town.

Applications have been submitted to Fenland District Council for transforming the Old Dairy, in Grange Road, into six business units and for a further 12 new units on the March Trading Park in Thorby Avenue.

The council is also considering plans for extensions to be added to Qualitetch Components factory to make additional office space.

The old dairy, originally built for agricultural use in the 1930s, is currently in "such poor and derelict condition that rebuilding is essential".

The design statement by the Roberts Partnership, on behalf of HR Property Development, said: "The disused site has been menaced by fly-tipping and rubbish disposal to the extent that it has become an environmental problem and an eyesore on the edge of the agricultural area."

The application looks to divide the building into six units, each intended for use by small businesses, and would create 30 jobs.

A further 30 jobs could be made in Thorby Avenue, where March man Graham Litchfield, of Charbel Properties, has applied for 12 small units. Sales of five of the units have already been agreed, with a sixth taken by Mr Litchfield for his roofing business.

The design statement sent to the council by Brand Associates, on behalf of Mr Litchfield, said: "Small businesses are a vital part of the local economy and this development would improve facilities and opportunities for new and existing businesses."

Chemical etching business Qualitetch is looking to add extensions to the front of rear of its factory, in Century Way.

Qualitetch's design statement said: "As the company is expanding additional office space will be required and there is very limited space towards the rear of the building.