New link road 'could bring 1,000 jobs' to area

A new roundabout and link road designed to improve access and attract businesses has opened.

Those behind the project hope the improvements to the B1135 at Hethel, near Wymondham, will open up 20 hectares (49 acres) of land to new businesses as well as improve access to Hethel Engineering Centre.

The project received £8.4m of investment from the Greater Norwich Growth Board Infrastructure Investment Fund, Norfolk County Council and South Norfolk Council.

Conservative leader of South Norfolk Council, Daniel Elmer, said it "has the potential to deliver over 55,000 square metres of new employment space, support around 1,000 additional high-value jobs, and help unlock £750m of direct investment".

"Once fully developed, it is expected to generate around £57m of economic output every year," he added.

He said the link was about "unlocking the next phase of growth for Hethel, creating the infrastructure needed to support existing businesses, attract new investment and open up opportunities for future generations".

Tom Dickerson, Reform UK county councillor and cabinet member for highways and transport, said: "There has been some money spent on it but I think what we will get from it and the longer term will be well worth it."

Dickerson said that while the improvement works had caused "quite a bit" of disruption, he believed the road will make a "heck of a difference" for the future.

"What we're trying to do is get companies to move here, create jobs and create a long-term future.

"The businesses are delighted. They can see what we're trying to do here... it's not just Norfolk, it's the bigger picture."

The new access also includes local pedestrian and cycling facilities.

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