Local business leaders and councillors are urging the development of a new M5 motorway junction, Junction 7A, which they believe could unlock significant economic opportunities in Worcestershire.
Alan White, chief executive of Malvern Hills Science Park, highlighted the facility’s current contribution, employing around 400 people and generating an estimated £22 million annually for the local economy. However, he acknowledged that further expansion is hindered by high construction and land costs, as well as limited transport infrastructure.
Speaking during Worcestershire County Council’s economic overview and scrutiny panel on 10 June, Councillor Martin Allen asked what infrastructure improvements could support growth at the science park. Mr. White emphasized the impact a new M5 junction would have: “Better connectivity is crucial for businesses in Malvern. Accessing the M5 south via Upton can be challenging, and though the route north to Junction 7 has improved, having a direct link—Junction 7A—would be transformative. I realize it might seem like a pipe dream, but it’s worth pursuing.”
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In addition, Mr. White called for continued investment in rail services, noting that train journeys between Malvern and Birmingham remain slow and could benefit from upgrades.
Adam Kent, Worcestershire County Council’s deputy leader and cabinet member for business, praised the science park as a hub of defence, technical, and scientific innovation. He emphasized the council’s commitment to attracting high-paying jobs to Malvern, remarking on the potential impact of improved transport links: “While constructing Junction 7A would be a significant undertaking through farmland, the success of developments at Junctions 6 and 7, including Worcester Six and the Parkway housing project, illustrates the critical need for job creation in the area. The science park is well-positioned to meet that demand.”
As housing developments at Parkway expand, the urgency for enhanced infrastructure and new job opportunities grows, reinforcing calls for investment in both road and rail to support Worcestershire’s economic future.