FOR any city to survive - and thrive - there must be a balance between development and communities.

An environment needs to be created which is conducive to bringing in businesses and entrepreneurs - for without jobs with prospects any community will stagnate.

But, of course, jobs and businesses aren't everything. Cities and towns must also be pleasant places to live, where people want to stay, raise families and enjoy their lives.

We believe Worcester, and the surrounding area, is able to meet these criteria - as long as the city and county authorities remain exacting in their assessment of any new development opportunities.

The planning proposal for the new Worcester Business Park is a case in point.

The promise of 2,000 jobs is enough to turn any authority's head, with the added bonus of a pub, creche and offices, alongside the hi-tech firms that are expected to be drawn in.

The location - at the junction of Nunnery Way and Newtown Road - would appear near perfect. Although it is a greenfield site, the land has already been allocated for employment use.

However, this would be a big development and we hope the relevant authorities will be vigilant in their assessment of its impact on the environment and the city's infrastructure.

We are sure they will be up to the task - and ensure Worcester continues to be a thriving community.