WORK on roads at a new business park in Great Notley has started.

Construction work on two access roads and a central spine road at the new Horizon 120 business and innovation park is being carried out by Balfour Beatty.

More than 2,000 jobs are expected to be created at the site when it is completed.

Braintree Council bought the 65-acre site in a bid to attract new businesses to the area and provide high quality jobs.

The council says the business park will offer flexible business accommodation, state-of-the-art energy-efficient buildings and electric vehicle charging points.

A central hub could be home to retail units, a restaurant and a facility offering childcare.

The council says Horizon 120 is already attracting the attention of four "well-established" companies keen to relocate their growing businesses to the "future-proofed" site.

Council corporate transformation boss John McKee said: “I am delighted that we are now embarking on one of the largest and most exciting projects in our district.

"This is an investment that will benefit residents and businesses and our local economy.

"The modern employment facilities and the park’s ideal location near the A120 will make Horizon 120 the place to do business now and in the future.”

The planning for an entrance off the Cuckoo Way roundabout, a second access point from the A131 to the south and a central spine road was given the green light in February.

Balfour Beatty project manager Steve Langford said: “The health, safety and wellbeing of all those who work with and for us, as well as the general public, is always our priority.

"All works are being delivered in line with UK Government’s Covid-19 guidance.

“To support the local economy, we are utilising a local supply chain to create job opportunities for the local area and wider community.”

Proposals for the park include the creation of a green environment where roads and paths are tree-lined with green buffers and wildlife corridors.

There will also be a habitat with ponds, grassland, hedgerows and trees.