New M5 services to provide 150 local jobs

The developer has made an agreement with a landowner to build the service station

More than 150 local jobs will be created as a new service station is set to be built on the M5 near Bridgwater.

Welcome Break has acquired a 10-acre plot at the new Notaro Park for the services adjacent to junction 24 - the Huntworth Interchange - with work due to begin next year.

Despite being close to the existing Moto services, also at Bridgwater, Welcome Break said the competition will be good for motorists.

CEO of Welcome Break, John Diviney, announced the jobs, adding: "We see it as a very strategic location, as a gateway to the south west and Cornwall."

Driving roughly 47 miles between Bristol and Taunton, there are already services at Gordano, Sedgemoor, Bridgwater and Taunton Deane.

Notaro Park will be a new 93-acre industrial development near Bridgwater

Mr Diviney added: "We certainly believe that there is a demand for a lot of service stations in that area.

"I think the more competition, the better for pricing and service. Quality of service, quality of facilities.

"It'll be a significant job creator in the locality. We will be creating over 150 jobs, that we would hope will go to people who are local to Bridgwater and we think that will be good for the economic benefit of the area."

Mr Diviney said the demand for e-chargers for electric cars had also increased, so they will be providing them at the new service station.

Stoford is the lead developer for Notaro Park and will be working alongside the landowner, S. Notaro.

Stoford director, Edward Peel, said previously: “We are very pleased to see the first phase of Notaro Park coming forward.

"Welcome Break’s arrival will provide new employment opportunities and on-site amenities, including electric vehicle charging points, which will benefit visitors and occupiers alike."