SOUTH Dorset is set for an economic boost with the creation of a new business complex.

Up to 50 new jobs will be created at the Navigator Business Centre at Osprey Quay on Portland.

Tidebank UK has begun the construction of a new 4,500 sq ft industrial unit at the site, the former Olympic sailing village.

It is due to be finished at the end of August and is the first of a number of new units planned for Osprey Quay.

Tidebank UK previously developed the Maritime Business Centre, which is also home to the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy.

In April site owner the Homes and Communities Agency (HCA) secured outline planning approval for up to 147,500 sq ft of new business space including offices, industrial and distribution facilities at the Mere Tank Farm area.

The HCA is marketing the serviced development plots and Tidebank has purchased land for this unit and is negotiating terms for another three units.

HCA Area Manager Mark Glendenning said: “It is great news for the area that Tidebank has started the next phase of development at Osprey Quay. Encouraging inward investment and new job opportunities in the area is a vital element of the future success of this development.”

Tidebank UK’s Director Kevin Jones said: “We are very pleased to be working with the HCA and Weymouth and Portland Borough Council to develop more of the available land at Osprey Quay. We already know from experience that Osprey Quay offers a great location and our new units will meet all the normal occupier demands and offer flexible terms.”