Hundreds of jobs are set to come to Ross on Wye following a £8million funding commitment by Herefordshire Council for the first phase of development at Model Farm.

The significant investment will enable development to start on the employment land next year (2024), establishing all the necessary infrastructure for the whole site including utility supply, road access and required changes to the A40.

Model Farm forms part of the Ross Town investment plan, which has been a driver of the need for this investment. When the first phase of work is complete the site will provide the opportunity for the private development of a mix of office and industrial space across four acres initially. This will then act as a catalyst for future phases of development across the remainder of the site.

Councillor Harry Bramer, Cabinet member, community services and assets said: “If we’re to attract investment in the south of our county we need the right, high quality, built for purpose, infrastructure. Model Farm was identified several years ago as the preferred site for employment land development, and I’m delighted that we’ve now prioritised the funding to progress this.”

On behalf of Ross ward councillors, Councillor Ed O’Driscoll, Ward member Ross East, said: “On behalf of all councillors in Ross, I welcome this investment in the future of our town. We urgently need more quality employment and believe Model Farm will enable more residents to both live and work here.”