Following the continued demand for commercial property in and around Lincoln and a successful planning appeal win - Lincoln Enterprise Park has been granted planning permission for the extension of the site - bringing new jobs to the city.

Following the completion of phase 6 in 2019, the newly approved phase 7 will bring 15 new mixed-use units to the park - located on the A46 near Thorpe on the Hill - offering in-demand expansion opportunities for current occupants and new commercial premises for other businesses.

It is estimate that circa 50 jobs will be created following the extension of Lincoln Enterprise Park, which in due course could directly or indirectly grow to 200.

Developer and site owner LEP Developments brought together a team of highly experienced industry professionals to successfully appeal the local authority’s initial decision to deny the planning approval.

Managing director of LEP Developments, Nicholas Falkinder, said: “Lincoln Enterprise Park’s growth over the last 15 years has been driven by the demand from businesses wanting to either expand, or relocate to the area.

“Naturally we are pleased with the decision to enable us to progress with our plans. We will be delivering a high-quality and sensitively designed development, which has carefully considered its context and setting - contributing towards driving the Lincolnshire economy forward.”

Planning consultancy GraceMachin Planning & Property led the appeal and Partner of GraceMachin Planning & Property, Nick Grace, said: “This is the right decision to enable welcome economic growth in Lincoln – a vibrant city which continues to attract inward investment from businesses that want to operate here.

The National Planning Policy guidance published in 2019 gives significant weight to economic growth and productivity, and this should be driven forward in Lincoln, as it is in other areas, for the benefit of the local economy. LEP Developments offer a premium product in a unique and highly accessible location and the landscape design and planting plans for the site, includes the addition of native trees, hedgerows and wildflowers”.

GraceMachin Planning & Property were instructed by the consultant architect to support the original application and after being refused recommended that an appeal should be submitted by way of an Informal Hearing. The advice proved to be robust and although the costs are time frames for such appeals are not immaterial, obtaining independent advice prior to engaging with the Planning Inspectorate can be critical.

This is another commercial planning success which Nick Grace has acted on in the East Midlands over the past 12 months during the Covid 19 pandemic supporting much needed economic growth and employment opportunities.