A PROJECT to develop the Holsworthy agri-business centre with £7.3-million of government funding has taken another step forward with Torridge councillors approving to progress with the project to develop land adjacent to the livestock market.

The centre will adjoin the thriving livestock market on New Market Road and is set to focus on agricultural innovation, retail and professional spaces. The livestock market at Holsworthy is already one of the largest in the south west and the £7.3-million of funding will be used to develop the infrastructure for extra retail and professional space around the site.

Earlier this year the project alongside eleven other programmes across Torridge received a share of the £20.7-million funding from the government's community regeneration partnership scheme. Theses capital projects will support the council's strategic ambitions and deliver lasting benefits to Torridge.

Councillor Ken James, leader of Torridge District Council, said: "I am delighted that councillors gave their support at full council last night to moving forward towards developing the land surrounding the Holsworthy cattle market.

“Agriculture is a huge economic driver within Torridge and Holsworthy is at its centre with the town and many businesses revolving around it.

“This is a once in a generation opportunity for Holsworthy whilst it is a very tight time schedule and there is much to do.

“I am confident the council will deliver the benefits the people of Holsworthy and the surrounding area deserve."

Councillor Bob Hicks, Lead member for economy and estates, said: "It's vital that we increase "home-grown opportunities" to encourage young people to stay in the area rather than move away. New investment, new business, new jobs and new money into the area - is desperately needed. I am looking forward to working with the team to ensure a successful implementation of the next phase."