A £180m plan to build a landmark logistics hub and create 4,000 jobs is set to proceed after Michael Gove decided not to call its approval in for review.
Developer Langtree’s application for Six56 Warrington was backed by the borough council in March and will now go ahead after the government said it would not intervene.
The development is set to provide approximately 3.1 million sq ft of new warehousing and distribution space.
READ MORE: Victorian Plumbing braced for 'modest' sales growth as inflation bites
Langtree group chief executive John Downes said: "This is a major milestone for the development of Warrington’s economy as it seeks to adapt to changing market conditions.
"In his letter, the secretary of state has acknowledged that local authorities are best placed to decide what is right for their community and this news will not only unlock £180m of development, but generate substantial rates income each year for investment in local services.
"It’s a very sustainable site and the north west is currently suffering from under-supply of logistics space.
"The sector pays well, with average salaries around £29,000 a year.
"In a development of this size there will be lots of roles available, from entry-level up to senior technical and managerial jobs.
"The impact of our investment will be multiplied if we can engage local suppliers in the construction and operation of the scheme and we are committed to ensuring as many contracts as possible go to local firms.
Langtree has said the work on site is likely to start towards the end of the year.