DEVELOPER Woodpecker Properties, based in Dorset, has started work on a new business park at Ringwood.

Pullman Business Park off Christchurch Road is being built in reaction to growing demand from firms for out-of-town units.

Firms wanting better transport links and more parking are increasingly looking outside the conurbation to Ringwood, Ferndown and Bournemouth Airport for freeholds.

Pullman will feature nine units ranging from 2,000sq ft to 3,041sq ft, all self-contained and with their own parking.

Construction work is due to be completed within six to nine months.

Freehold buildings are in short supply across south-east Dorset. This is compounded by particularly low interest rates and poor

returns in the pensions market, says Goadsby & Harding Commercial.

Director Bill Parker said: "Demand for offices in Ringwood - particularly at Headlands Business Park - has always been strong and therefore the creation of a new business park is a natural progression.

"We are pleased to report that already there are some units under offer with strong interest once the scheme is officially released to the market.

"We anticipate very few existing freehold properties coming on to the market in the next 12 months, with most businesses and investors happy to hold on to what they perceive as solid investments.

"With anticipated continuing low interest rates and low supply the ingredients are there for continued capital growth."

The end of British summer time meant more work for owners and agents controlling properties.

The firm has been arranging the annual review of timeclock changes to lighting systems at buildings.

Goadsby & Harding Commercial associate director Paul Stewart said: "This exercise is becoming increasingly imperative in light of increasing health and safety awareness.

"The onset of winter will also bring about the exercise of draining down water systems in vacant properties in order to protect against frozen and burst pipes.

"Building insurers will certainly be reviewing owners' procedures in the event of any claims," he added.