NORTHERN Developments has started work on a £19m car design and test centre for M-Sport at Dovenby near Cockermouth.

The Carlisle-firm, based in Burgh Road Industrial Estate, has been involved in the project since its inception six years ago.

It finally received the all-clear last year when a High Court judge threw out a legal challenge to Allerdale Council's decision to grant planning consent.

The centre will be the only one of its kind in the UK and will help M-Sport move into the general automotive sector, attracting motor manufacturers seeking to design and test new technology.

Northern Developments is creating 50 jobs during construction, while M-Sport expects to create 100 high-value jobs once the centre is operational.

Work is underway on a 2.5km test track. The initial phase involves major earth works, drainage, ground stabilisation as well as the creation of sound attenuation bunds at the site.

Eddie Ward, Northern Developments' commercial manager, said: “After working on this project for nearly six years, it’s extremely exciting to finally move into the construction phase.

“M-Sport is passionate about its Cumbrian heritage and we will ensure maximum economic benefit to the county by using local companies where we can.”

He added: “This is one of the most stimulating projects we’ve been involved with, from a design-and-build aspect but also concerning the positive impact it will have on the local economy and the new jobs it will create.”