NEW HOUSING and planning minister Gavin Barwell has paid a visit to Filton Airfield as part of his first official visit in the role.

The MP for Croydon Central assumed the role last month as part of the changes made under Theresa May’s leadership.

Visiting the 141-hectare site of the former airfield on July 27, the minister heard about plans for 2,675 new homes, three schools, a care home and a new community centre.

The site is also is planned for 62 acres of industrial use and a museum for the Concorde supersonic jet.

The minister also discussed with developers about plans for up to 7,000 new jobs coming to the area through the offices and workshops, which could contribute £300 million a year to the economy.

After his visit Mr Barwell said: “This Government is determined to deliver the homes people need and to help them achieve their ambition of home ownership, and I was delighted to see first-hand the proposals for Filton.

“Brownfield sites like Filton offer enormous potential to provide the homes local people want and plans for this site will bring many opportunities for the local economy.”