New jobs could be created near the M5 in Somerset if plans for a new warehouse are approved by district councillors.

Cubex Land Ltd has applied to build a new warehouse and distribution hub on land north of Pillmore Lane at the northern edge of Highbridge, near the town’s Aldi supermarket and Travelodge hotel.

The developer has argued the new building would be “a substantial investment” in the local area and “stimulate economic growth” in and around the town.

Sedgemoor District Council is expected to make a decision on the plans by the early summer.

The site is allocated for employment use within the council’s Local Plan, which sets out the district’s housing and employment requirements until 2032.

The warehouse will provide nearly 14,500 sq m of employment space for the occupiers – though the Bristol-based applicant has not identified any company which will use the site if it is approved.

Access will be from Isleport Lane, providing a speedy connection with the A38 Bristol Road and the M5 via the Edithmead roundabout – which Somerset County Council is aiming to upgrade in the coming months.

A total of 170 car parking spaces will be provided on site, including 34 charging spaces for electric vehicles, with the eastern end having sufficient parking for 88 lorries.

A spokesman for UMC Architects (representing the applicant) said: “The design proposals have been developed with due regard to the existing site, its context and surroundings, to create a carefully sited, appropriately sized building.

“The proposals allow for the best possible access by all modes of transport and encourage travel to the site by means other than car.

“The proposals are appropriate to the scheme as a whole and represent a substantial investment to the area and in particular, the development will help to promote and support employment growth and stimulate economic growth with the area, cohesive with regional and local aspirations.

“It is anticipated that the development will act as a catalyst to create a number of new jobs and inject investment into the local community.”

The site lies to the north of a planned development of 248 homes, accessed from the southern end of Isleport Lane, which is currently being consulted upon by the council.