Jaguar Land Rover is planning to expand i54 plant

Public consultations are being held next week over the closely-guarded proposals, the details of which are for the moment being kept under wraps.

But the expansion of the huge site on the Wolverhampton and Staffordshire border is sure to be a major boost for jobs and for the economy.

Consultations are now being held at Pendeford Community Hub on Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Spokeswoman Amanda Woolley said: "Jaguar Land Rover has identified a potential opportunity to increase its presence at the i54 site.

"Further details of the company's proposals for the site will be disclosed, in line with the formal planning process, in due course."

Council chiefs have hailed the plans as 'fantastic news'.

Around 1,400 jobs have already been created by the JLR engine plant since it opened.

In a public notice the firm states: "The company continues to review opportunities to strengthen its industrial footprint in the UK and has identified a potential to increase its presence within the i54 business park.

"Jaguar Land Rover continues to work in partnership with Wolverhampton, Staffordshire and South Staffordshire councils to develop its plans.

"This work will include developing a variety of opportunities for the local community."

Jaguar Land Rover is also opening a £14m showroom and dealership on Penn Road, Wolverhampton, creating around 70 new jobs.

The proposal has been hailed as 'fantastic news'.

Mark Winnington said: "It is fantastic news that Jaguar Land Rover is looking to expand its operations at i54 South Staffordshire.

"This shows how successful the company is and also that its operation here in Staffordshire is thriving.

"It also further demonstrates that Jaguar Land Rover made absolutely the right choice in locating to i54 South Staffordshire.

"It will mean more local jobs and have a positive impact on the regional economy.

"We will be working closely with the company and local residents through the planning process."

The meetings will be held at Pendeford Community Hub in Whitburn Close on Thursday (3-8pm), Friday (2-4pm) and Saturday (10.30am-12.30pm).

Bushbury councillor Daniel Warren said he was anxious to see the plans.

He added: "Any further expansion and creation of jobs is good as long as Bushbury people have the opportunity to have jobs in that area.

"There have been many months of roadworks on Wobaston Road and the Vine Island nearby, so I'm anxious to see the plans.

"I'm led to believe they've bought up what's left at the i54 site."