Sayers Common firm continues to expand and create jobs

In a bid to accommodate its expanding business, Avtrade which specialises in sale and lease of aircraft components, started building work on a new storage, distribution and office building on the former Stonegate Farm site near Sayers Common in January 2013.

Building work is currently ongoing but the company continues to grow and is already in need of extra space.

Mid Sussex District Council has now granted planning permission for an extension to the new warehouse building, which will enable them to store a much greater number of large parts on the site.

The new development, designed by Crowther Associates Architects LLP, will comprise a single storey warehouse, two new two-storey office buildings, a small staff house and parking for 226 cars.

The new extension will add a further 18 metres in length to the single storey warehouse and create much needed extra floorspace.

Raised grass mounds and careful landscaping will ensure the development retains a rural feel that is in keeping with the surrounding area.
Avtrade is a local success story, a Mid Sussex business that has continued to grow and develop during difficult economic conditions.

The company was founded in Fulking in 1985, and at the time employed just three members of staff.

Today Avtrade employs 170 people at its headquarters at Aviation Business Park in Albourne.

More than 40 jobs will be created by the move to Sayers Common and the new buildings will have room to accommodate a further 200 employees should the business continue to grow.

“Mid Sussex District Council is a strong supporter of the local economy and it’s exciting to see a company in our area growing to such an extent that they need bigger premises to accommodate the business,” said councillor Gary Marsh, cabinet member for Economic Development.

“I was delighted when our Planning Committee granted Avtrade planning permission for their new office and warehouse complex last year and it is excellent news that we have now approved plans for a further extension.

“This new development will significantly boost the Mid Sussex economy and create much needed jobs for local people.”
Avtrade chief executive Graeme Brooks said: “We are delighted with the cooperation we have received from Mid Sussex District Council in allowing for the development on the former Stonegate site.

“These new premises will allow for the continued expansion of our thriving aviation component business and further employment opportunities.

“We are a clean, quiet and environmentally sound business and we look forward to further integrating with the local community and providing much needed jobs with the associated training for local people.” 
For more information contact Mid Sussex District Council at [email protected] or telephone the District Council’s Planning Policy and Economic Development Team on 01444 477053.