The first phase of work on a £150million business park in Southend has been completed.

When finished Southend Airport Business Park will boast approximately one million square feet of office space, warehouses and hotel accommodation, as well as an innovation centre for new start-ups.

A spokesman for Southend Council said: “The agents are out there generating interest, and we will continue to construct the buildings as the interest comes in from businesses. “That way, the businesses who will be based at the site can specify their own requirements.”

Much of the business park will be built on land currently being used by Westcliff Rugby Club, so a key aspect of the project is the relocation of the club to a new home on neighbouring land.

The council spokesman added: “This work is progressing well, with the pitches, access road and car parks almost completed and clubhouse construction up to roof level.”

Geoff Sawyer, 69, Westcliff Rugby Club’s press secretary, said: “At least a couple of days of work were lost due to the snow this spring, but apart from that, the new rugby club seems to be coming along as expected.

“We’re hoping to be in our new clubhouse in time for the next season, but whether or not we will be able to use our five new pitches depends on the condition of those pitches at that point.”

The business park is being built next to the airport at Cherry Orchard Way.

It is hoped the project, which is a joint venture between Henry Boot Developments and Southend Borough Council, will create 5,000 jobs for the area.

Dedman Gray and Kemsley property consultants are currently marketing the business park to companies. A planning application will be submitted to Rochford Borough Council soon for a new highway, as part of the new development. Phase two of the business park project is due to start next month, and to be completed by November 2019. It includes plans to build the 2,600 sq metre innovation centre. Visit abp-southend.com for further information.”