PLANS to build 14 business units in Eccleshill have been submitted to Bradford Council.

The units would be built on a previously undeveloped area of land, and act as an expansion of Inspire Business Park, off Harrogate Road.

Run by Newlands Community Association, the business park on Newlands Way currently has 14 serviced offices and 14 workspaces, as well as an onsite cafe, meeting rooms and digital media suite.

But in a new planning application, the group says that increased demand for the services offered at the site means an expansion is now needed.

The application is for up to 14 single storey managed workspaces/office space units, with part mezzanine floors and a 64 space car park.

£19 million enterprise zone plan for Bradford site revealed

If approved, 1,554 square metres of new business space would be created on the site.

The site is currently used by private businesses, not-for-profit businesses, public sector services and community bodies.

The application says: "In the past year over 10,000 people visited the centre, protecting these services for the local community.

"Back in 2011 not all of the site was developed, with only the main community building and managed workspaces constructed.

"Over the last ten years it as seen the growth of the service groups within the local community resulting in the demand for new managed workspaces on the remaining vacant part of the site."

A public consultation into the proposals, held earlier this year, said: "There is currently a waiting list for business units and some of the existing tenants have asked for larger units as they are outgrowing their current space.

"Most tenants are from Bradford and employ local people."

As well as the 64 parking spaces, the application says: "The site is well served by public transport to and from the city centre along Harrogate Road. Secure bicycle storage currently exists for both staff and visitors."

Of its existing business park, the group says: "We designed Inspire to provide business tenants and the local community with a facility that will continually create and encourage opportunity.

"By redefining what a business park is, we are implementing a blueprint for commerce and community to coexist and to encourage enterprise from both.

"The business park’s location provides fast access to Bradford and Leeds city centres and the M62 and M1 whilst Leeds Bradford International airport is less than five miles away by car. Apperley Bridge Railway Station with direct trains between Leeds and Bradford is just 5 minutes away."

Bradford Council's Pollution Control Officer has recommended that electric vehicle charging points be included in the planned car park.

A decision on the application is expected in September.