A MULTI-million pound hi-tech business park for Canterbury is closer to becoming reality after the city council set aside land for its development.

At a meeting of the council's executive, members agreed that a 20-hectare wedge of land at the top of New Dover Road for the park is included in the Local Plan, the planning blueprint for the district's future.

It is hoped the park will attract new businesses to the district, generate wealth and create jobs.

James Cross, a member of the Canterbury Chamber of Commerce, is convinced it will one day become reality.

He said: "It is going to mean lots more prosperity for the people of Canterbury. And it's going to provide a place for new business to move into as well giving existing businesses the room to expand."

Despite the business community's joy at the decision, Mr Cross believes the park is still a long way off.

He added: "I think it will be years rather than months. But what has happened is that the starting pistol has been fired in a marathon."

The piece of land allocated is at Little Barton Farm and next to a small industrial estate. The park will be shielded from the road by new woodland.

City council leader Alex Perkins said: "I'm delighted that the council and the business community are agreed on this idea."