Holbeach Food Enterprise Zone could be expanded under new plans

A new scheme could see the expansion of Holbeach Food Enterprise Zone (FEZ) if planners give the green light.

Stirlin Developments Ltd wants to build 12 industrial units at the enterprise zone on land off Cibus Way at the zone.

The FEZ brings together academics from the University of Lincoln’s National Centre of Food Manufacturing with agri-food businesses in a bid to create cutting edge technology.

Under the latest application, Stirlin is looking to build new steel frame buildings to create 12 units along with access.

Construction is due to start in March next year - if the application is approved - and the project is estimated to take 12 weeks.

The FEZ project has brought together the district and county councils along with the Greater Lincolnshire Local Enterprise Partnership along with the University of Lincoln.

The FEZ could play a vital role to the future of global food production.

It will also be having a big impact on the South Holland economy by bringing together businesses and scientists on one site in Holbeach.

Partnerships are also being forged with Jamaica and Iceland along with helping firms in Africa.

Earlier this year the county council opened its The Hub which has 20 offices.

The latest application has been welcomed by South Holland District Council deputy leader Coun Nick Worth.

He said: “With the economy as it is now, South Holland’s business sector seems to be bucking the trend.

“We are getting a huge amount of inward investment with businesses coming to our area that is really good news. We hope that will continue.

“The FEZ is getting more and more interest.”