NEW jobs could be on their way to Worcester as building work begins for a global machine testing company.

Work at the Worcester Six Business Park is now underway to build an office for ZwickRoell, a supplier of static materials-testing machines.

The company is relocating its UK headquarters from Leominster to Worcester, and developer Stoford is beginning work on the nearly 20,000 sq ft site.

Stoford has appointed Benniman to complete the build, from where ZwickRoell will base its office functions. Work is expected to be completed in 2022.

The manufacturer plans to build a 10,000 sq ft assembly unit at a later date, after which it hopes to provide further opportunities to create jobs and expand as a business.

Edward Peel, development manager at Stoford, said: “It’s always an exciting time when we begin construction works and it’s especially gratifying that it is for yet another globally renowned, high-tech business, which sees its future at Worcester Six.

“Since we launched the business park in 2017, it has established itself as a first-class location for ambitious companies that recognise its strengths – not just quality units, but also its strategic location, excellent transport links and environmental infrastructure.”

Benno Sadowski, managing director for ZwickRoell, said: "We are very happy moving to Worcester Six Business Park, with its excellent strategic location in the UK.

"With our experience of more than 160 years in the material testing business, we offer our support and solutions at our new Customer Experience Centre here at Worcester Six Business Park."

Councillor Marc Bayliss, cabinet member for economy and skills said: “It’s fantastic news that yet another leading business in their field, ZwickRoell has chosen Worcestershire, as the place to expand its facilities in the UK.

"This potential development would see a new headquarters and customer experience centre to Worcester Six Business Park.

"A global leader in materials testing, ZwickRoell is a real success story."

In the past three years, Stoford has announced the arrival of Marmon Food and Beverage Equipment, Siemens, Spire Healthcare, Kimal, Kohler Mira and IONOS at Worcester Six.

Once fully developed, Worcester Six, which is located just off junction six of the M5, will provide 1.5 million sq ft of accommodation.