Business Secretary Greg Clark has backed investment being made into the Havant economy following a tour of the new FatFace distribution centre at Dunsbury Park.
The £5million site, opened by the clothing brand last year, is set to create an extra 100 jobs over the next ten years, and the Business Secretary was invited to see the development and other investments being made into the area by local MP Alan Mak.
The distribution centre is the first part of a wider Dunsbury Park development just off the A3(M) near Leigh Park, which could eventually generate millions of pounds for the local economy, and up to 3500 new jobs in total.
It follows the construction of the Solent Road Retail Park in Havant town centre that has attracted brands such Marks & Spencer, Next and Mothercare.
Business Secretary Greg Clark said: “FatFace’s investment at Dunsbury Park is a big vote of confidence in Havant’s economy and I was delighted to see new jobs being created. Alan’s dedication and hard work in making the case, and success in securing investment and economic growth in Havant and wider Solent Region is admired and respected.”
Alan welcomed the investment being made into the Havant economy by firms, saying that many will be exhibiting at his upcoming Havant Jobs, Apprenticeships and Careers Fair that returns for a fourth year on Friday 15 March 2019 at Havant Leisure Centre, backed by the News.
Unemployment in the Havant constituency is 2.1 per cent, well below the national average, with those claiming out of work benefits having halved since 2010.
Havant MP Alan Mak said: “FatFace is one of Havant’s leading local employers, and I was delighted to show the Business Secretary how this great business is creating new local jobs. Their commitment proves our area has real investment potential. Having seen the distribution centre develop from the drawing board to construction to opening, it was great to see it fully operation at peak capacity ready for the Christmas trading.”
The Dunsbury Park site serves as the principal supply centre for more than 231 shops, including a number in America, that FatFace operates.
Simon Ratcliffe, Director at FatFace said: “It was great to welcome Alan and the Business Secretary to Dunsbury Park and showcase our brand-new distribution centre. This new site is part of our longstanding commitment to Havant and is creating employment opportunities for people from the local area.”