A DEVELOPMENT in Liphook has been shortlisted for a planning award for its impact on the local economy.
Ordnance Business Park, the former Ordnance Supply Unit in Midhurst Road, is in the running to win a Royal Town Planning Institute Award.
The site was developed by East Hampshire District Council into office and industrial premises.
East Hampshire invested £2.6million into the scheme while the Enterprise M3 LEP added £1.6m.
The three buildings not only provide sought-after employment space but generate rental income to be reinvested in economic development projects locally.
The initiative is the product of East Hampshire’s Invest for Growth initiative, which seeks to provide business space to support housing growth.
The development has been shortlisted in the Royal Town Planning Institute’s Excellence in Planning for a Successful Economy category.
The winners will be announced during a ceremony held at the Milton Court Concert Hall in London on April 30.
Cllr Ken Moon, East Hampshire’s economic development portfolio holder, said: “We are delighted that East Hampshire’s Invest for Growth project has been nominated.
"It clearly shows the benefits of collaborative working between the council’s economic development and planning teams.
“The redevelopment of the Ordnance Supply Unit site has been one of our most important economic projects over the past few years.
"We knew we needed more business space in the district and this site was an ideal location.”
The Royal Town Planning Institute Awards for Planning Excellence have been running for more than 40 years and celebrate exceptional planning and the contribution planners make to society.
Institute president Sue Manns said: “Many congratulations to all the finalists at this year’s awards, representing the very best of our profession from not only all the institute’s regions and nations but also from countries around the globe.
“These outstanding projects, teams and individuals show how planning can have a positive effect on our communities and the environment and how planners can use their expertise and enthusiasm to create inclusive, happy and healthy places and spaces for ourselves and for future generations.”