A FORMER depot site is set to be redeveloped following a £1m investment.

Winchester City Council is investing the money for a new development of three small business units, totalling 6,726 sq. ft. at the former Bishop’s Waltham depot as part of a new strategy to help the area become a premier business hub and develop rural workspaces.

Councillor Rob Humby, who represents Bishops Waltham on the City Council, said: “It’s a pleasure to see this type of development progressing in our market towns.

“I am delighted that this is happening as it’s supporting the local economy and demonstrates that business accommodation can be well placed outside the city centre.”

Previously, the 0.95 site was used to store refuse, but the site has been vacant in recent years although considered for a number of development options, including a new fire station and housing however neither was considered suitable.

The move comes after a need for rural workspace was identified in the a survey commissioned by SQW, which showed that 71 per cent of Winchester businesses found it very difficult to find suitable workspace in the district while 49 per cent were concerned about the state of existing workspace offering.

Mark Baulch, head of policy and representation at the Hampshire Chamber of Commerce said: “It is very positive to hear that Winchester City Council may be bringing further employment opportunities to the Bishop’s Waltham area.

“Allowing small businesses to be based locally is good for the economy of smaller towns and reinforces the message that Hampshire is a great place to do business and that there continue to be investment opportunities here.”

The council is expected to make a decision on the site in early 2018.