Construction work has begun on a new local centre for Twigworth, which forms part of a major development by Robert Hitchins Ltd.

The new local centre will be anchored by a 4,000 sq ft Midcounties Co-Op convenience store, alongside up to five other units which will host a broad mix of retail, dining and leisure operators.

Gloucester-based family-owned building contractors, EG Carter & Co Ltd have started construction on the site which has a new access road from the A38 between Gloucester and Tewkesbury.

Thomas Jones, associate director, said: "We are excited to have started construction on this new unit - it will be a great asset for local businesses. We are planning to be complete and hand over the project to Robert Hitchins at the end of September 2021 and we're looking forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the community."

Michael Plimmer, senior development manager for Robert Hitchins Ltd, was pleased to see work progressing.

"We're delighted to see this project taking off and to be working with EG Carter & Co Ltd. The local centre will offer much-needed, high-quality and conveniently-located retail and leisure facilities for local residents," he said.

The wider the development at Twigworth includes 725 homes being developed by national housebuilder Vistry, a primary school, parking, open space, landscaping and support infrastructure on a site adjoining the A38 Tewkesbury Road.

The final line-up of operators at the retail centre is yet to be finalised with opportunities still remaining. Commercial property agents Arc Retail are marketing the units which are available to rent for a variety of uses including shops, cafes, pharmacies and hot food takeaway. They range from 750 to 1,000 sq ft and can be amalgamated to create up to 2,000 sq ft, subject to planning.

Currently there are said to be nearly 12,000 vehicle movements a day along the section of A38 adjacent to the centre which will increase significantly when the housing is completed.