Newton Abbot engineering firm Centrax has taken the next step in its bid to develop what it now says will be an upmarket business park at Milber. Last week, the Advertiser reported that the firm would be submitting planning applications associated with the project 'soon'. On Tuesday, it did just that, one application for the business park and improved playing fields, another for a new access road the firm says will improve life for residents in Haccombe Lane by closing it off to commercial traffic. Last April, Teignbridge councillors refused permission for an industrial estate on the land off Long Lane, saying it would adversely affect an Area of Great Landscape Value. Around 250 objections were raised, including 180 letters from residents. But some in the authority, including leader Cllr Alan Connett, said the scheme should be supported as it would bring well paid jobs to the area. Sports fans, too, favoured the scheme as it would have provided better facilities. The latest plans include a site for 'managed workshops in association with Teignbridge Council and the Regional Development Agency', a possible indication that the council, if not the councillors, is in favour of the development. Asked to comment on the council's position, a spokesman said: 'Our economic development team is committed to promoting, attracting and retaining business and industry in Teignbridge and has provided advice in relation to Centrax's development plans, as part of its usual economic development service role to external businesses. 'We understand that the forthcoming application includes a 'managed workshop' space; a collection of small business units under one roof which will enable smaller businesses to rent suitable employment space. 'It is important to remember that any such planning application will need to work through all the normal procedures including consultation with interested parties and decision-making by a meeting of the council's development control committee.' The application is to go before councillors in the coming weeks.
