A scheme that could create 1,700 jobs at a business park near Measham has been submitted to North West Leicestershire District Council.

Insider Media reports that an expansion of Mercia Park, at junction 11 of the A42, is in the pipeline.

The plans have been prepared by IM Properties, which developed Mercia Park.

At present, the site, which currently employs more than 2,500 people, is the home of JLR's Global Logistics Centre and is a flagship facility for global transport and logistics company DSV.

If approved, the expansion would provide further space for businesses and could create between 1,000 and 1,700 jobs on site once complete and fully operational, as well as an estimated £2.8m per year in business rates. 

Matthew Fox, planning director at IM Properties, said: "Mercia Park has demonstrated that it is a leading location for business with excellent transport links and net zero-ready buildings all within a high quality landscaped setting. 

"Expansion of this important economic asset would capitalise on the profile and success of the site and provide much-needed new business space to help drive inward investment in Leicestershire."

North West Leicestershire District Council's draft Local Plan has proposed the land to the north of Junction 11, M42 as a potential allocation for strategic distribution.

Independent of the planning process for the expansion of Mercia Park, IM Properties said it is shaping proposals to create a new community fund to support projects that strengthen communities or improve the natural environment. 

Established to support the first phase of the site, the Mercia Park Community Fund has helped to fund 81 local projects to date.

 in a move that could create up to 1,700 jobs. The site is already home to JLR's Global Logistics Centre.