MORE than 50 new jobs could be created if Two Rivers gets the go-ahead to build an ambitious £12 million HQ in Newent.

The company has announced plans for purpose-built offices and a business village in the town.

Originally the company had planned to move from Mitcheldean to Steam Mills in Cinderford.

But after continual delays to the Northern Quarter regeneration project, bosses decided to relocate to a three-acre site at Cleeve Mill Lane, Newent, several months ago.

They have now submitted an official planning application to the Forest of Dean District for the development which will house 85 existing staff and could lead to 55 new jobs.

The application includes details of a new environmentally friendly HQ with support facilities, accommodation for local businesses and green touches such as solar panels.

There will also be an extra care centre for elderly and vulnerable residents, a community centre and a mixed use business village and housing development.

Eight start-up business units and eight work/live units with first-floor flats and ground floor workshops will help those looking to set up on their own.

Two Rivers Housing is hoping to provide affordable office space and is about to research the type of companies likely to move in.

"This development is part of our commitment to supporting the community in the Forest of Dean wherever we can," said Garry King, chief executive of Two Rivers Housing.

"We wanted to bring forward a development that would not only provide us with a new office, but also offer facilities to benefit local people.

"There is a huge need for a solution to rising unemployment and for care facilities in the area, and this will offer a viable solution to both."

Two Rivers Housing, which manages around 3,700 homes, has worked from its current base in Mitcheldean since it was formed from Forest housing stock in 2003.