500 jobs in line

The RDA bought the 26-acre site in June 2002

Up to 500 jobs could be coming to a Devon town following the South West Regional Development Agency's (RDA) decision to try to improve the infrastructure at an industrial estate.

It is the latest boost for Okehampton which has bounced back after the foot and mouth crisis.

The South West RDA has submitted a planning application to lay roads and services at its Exeter Road Industrial Estate.

The RDA, who bought the 26-acre site in June 2002, plans to develop a range of fully serviced plots which could support up to 500 jobs.

Good workforce

The Okehampton Chamber of Trade has been lobbying the RDA for some time to improve the roads and services at the site.

"Ensuring the site has first class roads and services, is an essential part of the development work," said Stephen O'Higgins, RDA regeneration consultant

"It will open up much-needed employment land in Okehampton which will be marketed to new and expanding companies both locally and outside the region."

Local people hope that it will bring a number of bigger companies to the area - attracted by its proximity to the A30 and the reputation of a good workforce.