Andover Airfield given planning go-ahead

The committee resolved by 22 votes in favour and just one abstention to approve the planning application which will enable Goodman to deliver the 467,000 sq ft Regional Distribution Centre for The Co-operative Group. 

Phase one of the project will include the construction of all on and off-site highway infrastructure including a new road junction providing direct access to the A303 dual carriageway, which is just 10 minutes from the A34. 

The project demonstrates both Goodman and the Co-operative Group’s confidence in Andover and represents a major investment in the town. 

Goodman plans to start work on site in May 2010 with development plots available from the 3rd quarter 2010. 

Jason Harris, development director at Goodman commented: “We are grateful to the Council for dealing with our latest planning application in such a timely manner and are delighted that we are now able to proceed with development of the site. We recognise that this is very good news for the local economy and for the people of Andover.” 

Trevor Ashworth, Director of Co-operative Food Retail Logistics, said: "The granting of planning permission by Test Valley Borough Council for a new Regional Distribution Centre at Andover is a major milestone in the strategic development of our logistics network. The Andover site, which will employ 900 people when fully operational, is ideally placed to serve our food stores in the south of England, and will enable us to continue to provide Co-operative customers with the high standards of service they expect." 

Goodman has already commenced its marketing campaign for the remainder of the development and is keen to attract other potential occupiers with warehouse, office, industrial, and hotel requirements.