Plymouth Jobs Boost as Units Open at Langage Site
Four new employment units have opened at Langage Freeport site in Plymouth, with the development expected to support around 138 full-time jobs.
The scheme was delivered in 12 months by Plymouth City Council in partnership with Plymouth and South Devon Freeport[1]. It provides workshop, production and office space aimed at businesses operating in marine, defence[2], advanced manufacturing, engineering and net-zero technology sectors. The units range from 750 square metres, 8,100 sq ft, to just over 2,000 square metres, 22,200 sq ft.
Each includes adaptable production space, offices across ground and first floors with lift access, welfare facilities, service yards, parking and electric vehicle charging points.
According to the council, sustainability was embedded in the design from the outset. The development has achieved BREEAM Excellent and Net Carbon Zero standards and incorporates solar glazing, solar photovoltaic panels, LED lighting, electric heating, insulation and natural lighting. The authority says these measures are intended to reduce energy use and operating costs for future occupiers.
The site is located within one of the region's designated Freeport tax sites. Freeports were introduced by the Government to encourage regional investment through tax and customs incentives. Supporters argue they help attract businesses and create jobs, while critics have questioned whether some activity may relocate from other areas rather than represent entirely new economic growth.
During construction, the project delivered eight internships, six new jobs for apprentices and graduates, seven careers events, 172 waged training weeks and 17 qualifications, according to figures provided by the council. Employability support was also offered to people leaving military service through collaboration with Skills Launchpad Plymouth. The development was funded through a GBP4 million Freeport seed capital allocation[3], match-funded by Plymouth City Council.
It is the first completed industrial scheme within one of the Plymouth and South Devon Freeport[4] tax sites, with further phases planned across the wider programme.
References
- ^ Freeport (www.plymouthchronicle.co.uk)
- ^ defence (www.plymouthchronicle.co.uk)
- ^ Freeport seed capital allocation (www.plymouthchronicle.co.uk)
- ^ Plymouth and South Devon Freeport (pasdfreeport.com)
- ^ Derriford Surgeon's Portrait Displayed at Royal College of Surgeons (www.plymouthchronicle.co.uk)
- ^ 'It's a Shambles': Frustration and Long Queues at Plympton Parking Machines (www.plymouthchronicle.co.uk)