Worcester Bosch factory move to Tibberton opposed

The firm hopes to build a new headquarters for 1,000 extra staff

Plans by Worcester's biggest employer to build a new head office on greenfield land are facing opposition.

Boiler manufacturers Worcester Bosch wants to open a plant on land off Pershore Lane at Tibberton, near Worcester, in a move it says will create hundreds of new jobs.

The plans are with Wychavon District Council having been approved by neighbouring Worcester City Council.

But people living near the proposed site say alternatives should be sought.

Villager Tracy Cass said: "If you drive through where Bosch are already, there's a number of units which are already derelict, for sale or have to let signs up.

"I just question, couldn't they look at something else which wouldn't have such an impact?

"I think it's important that Bosch expand and is kept as Worcester Bosch, but preferably stays in Worcester."

Worcester Bosch is currently based in Warndon, on the outskirts of Worcester, and employs nearly 2,000 people.

The proposed site, near Junction 6 of the M5, will include new offices, a manufacturing plant, parking for 2,676 vehicles and also a mini-nature reserve.

A new traffic roundabout would also have to be constructed at the entrance to Pershore Lane.

'Merely outline'

A spokesman for Worcester Bosch said: "The proposed move to a new site by Worcester, Bosch Group has been the subject of three separate public consultation events.

"The approval supported by Worcester City Council is merely outline planning approval and is part of the planning approval process.

"Our proposals now go forward to Wychavon District Council."

A spokesman for Wychavon planning department said it was expected the application would be put before councillors around August.