Hitachi Capital Commercial Vehicle Services (Hitachi Capital) has received planning permission for new premises which will enable the company to continue its track record for expansion whilst remaining in Trowbridge. The permission follows specialist studies and consultation with local residents and organisations. Particular focus was placed on creating a raised woodland area to enhance the current view, as well as providing a strong boundary between the urban and rural areas.

Having outgrown current offices with on-going recruitment, the new site will meet the fleet provider’s need for a main office building with commercial vehicle storage and additional space for cleaning and preparation. Following an assessment of a wide range of options, it was decided that the land on Bradley Road, opposite Meridian Business Park, was the only one capable of meeting all of these requirements.

Jon Lawes, managing director, Hitachi Capital Commercial Vehicle Services, comments: “We are delighted that Wiltshire Council has granted us planning permission for the new site. As outlined in our plans, we intend to create new premises that are both visually attractive to the local area and sensitive to the environment.

“The Council was satisfied with our plans and affirmed the economic benefits for Trowbridge that comes with having a global business in the community. These benefits include future recruitment as we commit to jobs for local residents.

“We fulfilled all of the necessary obligations throughout the planning process and consulted members of the public to gauge their feedback on the proposed developments and encouraged suggestions. We are confident that the new development with its landscaped setting will improve the views from North Bradley.”

As well as the existing regular bus service, Hitachi Capital will provide facilities for cyclists as well as charging points for the company’s growing electric vehicle fleet.

Mel Clinton, associate director of planning and economic regeneration at Nash Partnership comments, “We are delighted that planning permission has been granted for this exciting new scheme in Trowbridge. Extensive consultation and specialist work was undertaken in progressing the project and the planning decision is a recognition of the benefits the development will bring in terms of economic growth, environmental quality and enhancement of this key gateway to the County Town.”