A protest held by local people and MP's at Eye Airfield who are against proposals for a waste site to be built on the land.; Where the waste would be built

A major Suffolk airfield could become a hub for world class companies bringing high value jobs and prosperity to the area, if the vision of nearby residents and businesses comes to fruition.

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Mid Suffolk District Council held a consultation evening with more than 50 local businesses, residents and councillors in January, which revealed many would like Eye Airfield to become a centre of excellence in the sectors of energy, food and waste.

The proposal, unveiled by the council’s consultants Core Connections, will be used to produce a development brief for the area to ensure a structured and co-ordinated approach to future development at the site, which would become known as the Hartismere Enterprise i-Hub.

The application for the airfield to become a rural business growth hub was also supported by the businesses, residents and councillors at the January meeting.

Tim Passmore, leader of Mid Suffolk District Council, said: “Economic prosperity and growth in Mid Suffolk is at the top of our agenda and the development of the Eye Airfield, and its hinterland, is crucial to economic prosperity in the northern area of Mid Suffolk.

“It is absolutely vital that this brings opportunities for young people to enter the workforce, high value jobs and world class companies.

Mr Passmore added: “This vision document has been drafted after listening to all the views from the public meeting.

“Any further comments in this consultation stage are vital to securing the optimum development for the airfield.”

One idea was for a “Quiet Zone” for businesses compatible with residential neighbours.

The plans are available on the Mid Suffolk website www.midsuffolk.gov.uk/Business, under the business section and comments are welcome to help draw up a Development Brief to guide the future development on the 250ha site.

dominic.bareham2@archant.co.uk