NEW business units could be in the pipeline for a former depot site in Bishop’s Waltham.

Winchester City councillors agreed at cabinet held in Whiteley to develop a site off Lower Lane which is already owned by the council but is currently vacant apart from a single derelict building.

The depot covers 0.95 acres and is situated in a former quarry. In the past it has been used as a base to store refuse freighters serving local parishes, but the site has remained vacant in recent years.

The plot has previously been considered for a number of development options, including a new fire station and housing, but neither was considered suitable.

Members asked for further studies to assess the commercial viability of the site before a final decision is made.

Portfolio holder for business Cllr Rob Humby said at the meeting in Whiteley: “It’s a pleasure to see this type of development progressing in our market towns. This cabinet is dedicated to a full district agenda.

“I am delighted that this is happening as it’s supporting the local economy and demonstrates that business accommodation can be well placed outside the city centre.”

The council is expected to make a final decision on the future of the site in early 2018.

The meeting of Winchester City Council’s cabinet in Whiteley is part of their recent decision to hold every other meeting in a different location around the district to reflect the diversity and geographic scope of the district.