PLANS are to be submitted for a new business park at Scotch Corner by Buccleuch Property, the commercial property arm of the Buccleuch Group, a rural development business owned by the Duke of Buccleuch.

The site is adjacent to the Scotch Corner Hotel and will involve the creation of a business park and logistics zone, bringing new offices, infrastructure and businesses to an area of North Yorkshire that has long been designated for development.

Richmondshire District Council has already passed plans, approved by the Highways Agency, for a new road layout that will allow access to the site.

Key features of the site include structured landscaping, 28 new office units catering for a range of business sizes, improved access to broadband and communications infrastructure, and a state-of-the art logistics unit.

Sandy Smith, of Buccleuch, said: “This project is critically important to the local economy. At a time when the recession is biting, we are ready to invest to open up a new site and bring new opportunities for business and employment.

“The development costs will exceed £20m and the project will provide important jobs in its construction phase. This site has been designated as a primary business site for more than ten years. In our planning, we have carefully appraised the real opportunities to develop the site in a way that enhances the local environment and is practical and sustainable.”