A NEW business and investment zone is up and running in Brierley Hill and could create around 1,600 new jobs

Dudley Council has been working with property owners at The Waterfront to encourage new business into the 200,000 sq ft of available space.

The council has already had four enquires in just a few weeks from firms looking to relocate to the Dudley Business Investment Zone and take advantage of a two-year business rate free period.

Councillor Judy Foster, Dudley's cabinet member for regeneration, said: “These are still very much early days for the Dudley Business Investment Zone but we are really encouraged by the number of enquiries we have had.

“The new zone is now up and running and is part of our clear vision for bringing more business, investment and jobs into the area.

“There are huge economic benefits for the whole of Dudley borough by firms moving into the Waterfront with the scope for an additional 1,600 jobs.

“We are continuing to work with those companies who have enquired about the zone and with property owners at the Waterfront to ensure we make the very best of this exciting opportunity.”

Dudley Council’s cabinet approved the investment zone scheme in February this year to help fill the vacant space at the 650,000 sq ft Waterfront complex.

The cost of the business rate incentive will be shared equally by the council and participating Waterfront property owners.

Existing occupiers in the ‘Waterfront zone’ keen to expand their operations may be eligible for the discount but only on any additional floor space occupied, over and above the floor space occupied when the zone was declared.

To find out more about the investment zone call 01384 812001, email info@dudleybusinessfirst.org or go to www.dudleybusinessfirst.org