A £1.2 million incubator unit for new businesses and jobs has been proposed as part of Uttlesford District Council’s budget starting in April. The proposal from the council’s Liberal Democrat group would help small businesses to start and give a boost to the local economy.

Cllr Alan Dean, the Lib Dem shadow finance spokesman said: “The council is now taking economic development seriously. It needs a serious project like this to show that it really means business. Our neighbours in Braintree are planning a similar scheme.

“Uttlesford will receive over £2m in New Homes Bonus in 2013/14 and even more the following year. Much of this is surplus to the council’s basic requirements. Now is the time to invest some of this money in a lasting legacy.”

The budget amendment can be read at paragraph 16 of the cabinet paper Item 12 – General Fund and Council Tax 2012-13