A COUNCIL'S Direct Labour Organisation has moved into a new £2.9 million purpose-built depot - a fortnight ahead of schedule.

Developer Summerfield has completed the building for Taunton Deane Borough Council at Westpark 26 business park, at Chelston, Wellington.

The Deane commissioned the premises, which occupies a 1.93-acre plot so it could relocate from its previous base at Priory Way, Taunton, which has been sold to Helston Garages Group.

The DLO’s team of 160 staff has now relocated to its new base.

Construction work started in late spring and the depot consists of a warehouse, workshops, offices, including a mezzanine area totaling 5,000 sq ft, and a large yard that suits the DLO's specific needs.

Chris Winter, chief executive at Summerfield, said: “Our vision for Westpark 26 has always been to create a diverse hub for enterprise across a variety of sectors.

"The completion of the DLO premises for Taunton Deane Borough Council, along with new occupiers for Block A and a new hospital on the park, is bringing this vision to fruition.

"Furthermore, the DLO depot and its accompanying site infrastructure have opened up the western section of the business park for new development opportunities.”

Ben Trickey, divisional director at Summerfield. “Since the development began on site, Summerfield and Devon contractors have worked with TDBC to deliver the building two weeks ahead of schedule, including variations to the original specifications.”

Cllr John Williams, council leader at TDBC, said: “Summerfield has created a bespoke depot for the DLO that is modern, fit for purpose and provides a better quality work environment for our staff.

"It is truly a vote of confidence in our council and for the future of our DLO.

"The rapid progress of the scheme is to be commended - it was delivered ahead of schedule and on budget.

“I am delighted to see that this development, and others, demonstrates the important and positive role Westpark 26 is playing in the support of business and employment opportunities in the region."