@emilyhstott

Proposals for a supermarket at the Discovery Park in Sandwich have undergone a second round of public feedback.

The consultation, before the plans are submitted to district planners, saw more than 350 people attend the exhibitions. They were able to view the plans and ask questions.

Paul Barber, managing director of Discovery Park Ltd, said: “It has been incredibly useful to speak with so many local residents and businesses and understand their views on our vision for Discovery Park.

“An overwhelming majority of people told us that optimising the employment potential on the site and delivering a truly world class business park is key.

“We completely agree, which is why the driving force behind the plans is to ensure the success of Discovery Park as an employment location.”

The food store would create 3,000 jobs for the area and would also include a modern, flexible floor space, a range of amenities for employees and visitors including leisure and retail, opportunities for workers to access good-quality housing and improvements on public transport links, roads and footpaths.

Mr Barber added: “For Discovery Park to succeed we need to create new buildings, improved connections, enhanced environment and an appropriate blend of uses and facilities while keeping the focus on science and research/development activities.

“A thriving Discovery Park will bring unparalleled benefits for Sandwich, including 3,000 new jobs, opportunities for education and apprenticeships, spin-off trade for town centre businesses, and scope for improvements to the town’s public realm, public transport and parking.”

Discovery Park Ltd has already submitted a planning application for a new 30,000 sq ft supermarket and aims to submit an outline planning application for the wider site to Dover District Council by the end of the year.

For more information telephone the Discovery Park consultation community line on 0800 0086 764 or email info@discovery-park-consultation.co.uk