The construction of a new town is bringing not just homes to the region but also new business opportunities.

Sherford, to the east of Plymouth, is expected to inject around £2 billion into the local economy as a result of commercial relationships and employment opportunities. This is in addition to the £1 billion that it will cost to build. Construction companies, landscapers, marketing agencies and educational organisations are all expected to benefit from the growth of the new town.

Some businesses are already seeing positive results from their involvement with the development. One Plymouth-based landscaping firm, YGS Landscapes Ltd has reported an increase in turnover of 45% and a upturn in staff numbers of 20% since it began working on the site in 2014. It has taken on new apprentices to give them the chance to learn landscaping skills on a growing development.

Around 62,000 trees have already been planted and 200,000 plants. The town entrance alone has over 26,000 plants and work is underway to create a 500-acre community park. 

Steve Warren-Brown, MD of YGS said: “We have watched the site grow from a plot of empty space into a ground-breaking new community."

To help address some of the region’s skills challenges, a new £370,000 training centre is being built on the site. Set for completion in spring this year, it will provide training and experience across many major construction trades and will work with military veterans, apprentices and local contractors.

Devon County Council Leader, John Hart said: "Sherford is important for the economic growth of Devon and I’m pleased to see that local businesses are actively involved in its development and are gaining a direct benefit. It’s encouraging that the development of skills for the long-term future are also being catered for through the training centre.”