Work has started on the first phase of one of the biggest industrial property developments in Oxford for more than a decade in a move which will create scores of jobs.

Network Oxford will cover seven acres in Sandy Lane West, Cowley, and will involve the redevelopment of existing redundant warehousing. Two tenants have already been lined up to move into the first phase of the new development once it has been completed early next year.

Bus operator Stagecoach will take a one acre area at the rear of the scheme to extend its existing depot.

And Nedschroef, which supplies small parts such as screws, rubber and plastic items to the Mini plant in Cowley is moving from its current premises on the Oxford Business Park North. It is leasing a 30,000 sq ft warehouse building creating up to ten more jobs in addition to its existing 40-strong workforce.

Managing director David Hughes said: "The new premises will be bigger and we are looking to expand."

The second phase will involve smaller units designed for occupiers such as builders merchants requiring a trade counter operation.

SUMMERTOWN: Larissa Griffin has joined property agents Kemp & Kemp as a property management surveyor. Ms Griffin said: "I am really looking forward to the challenge. The properties here are diverse and the solutions they require are also very different, so there will be plenty to do." Partner Chris Wilmshurst added: "Larissa has excellent qualifications as she is a certified surveyor and has done a similar job locally for seven years."

WITNEY: Timber frame house builder Stewart Milne Timber Systems has recruited three new directors.

Keith Floodgate, left, joins as commercial director after 18 years experience at BT in a series of senior project management and customer service roles.

David Roy has come in as sales director having spent more than 20 years in sales and marketing for Coca Cola both within the UK and international markets.

And the new manufacturing director is Margaret Adams, left, who worked previously with Ford and General Motors.

Group finance director John Irvine said: "The fact we can now attract people from global brand name companies is testimony to the maturing success of our business and provides the springboard for further growth."