Twenty new construction jobs will become available in Exmouth this September with work starting on the expansion of Liverton Business Park.

Clinton Devon Estates has awarded Vinci Construction UK a �2m contract for the first phase.

This will include ‘substantial’ earthworks, the installation of utility services, a road and footpath for new business units.

And after infrastructure work is completed on the five hectare site, building work on the businesses units will begin in the spring.

These will range in size from 100sq m (1200 sq ft) to 3,000 sq m (30,000 sq ft).

The first units, says Clinton Devon Estates, offer ‘flexible employment space’ for light industry, storage and distribution.

A spokesman for VINCI said that they aimed to recruit 70 per cent of the workforce from within 30 miles of Exmouth.

Leigh Rix, head of property for Clinton Devon Estates said: “This represents a significant investment in Exmouth and East Devon at a time when the UK economy is still in a fragile state.

“Clinton Devon Estates has made a bold commitment to press ahead with the development of Liverton 2 for the long term benefit of our local businesses, industry and the wider community.”

He added that they were in ‘advanced negotiations’ with several well-known companies.

Clinton Devon Estates’ retained agent Malcolm Williams added: “This opportunity to create bespoke business space is unique and the space we have is limited so I would encourage firms to discuss their requirements with us as soon as possible.”