CDW Ltd, which provides IT services and solutions across the UK and internationally, wants to extend the car park at its site in Cyrus Way in Cygnet Park by 62 spaces.

CDW was formerly known as Kelway Ltd and relocated to Peterborough in 2012, with employment growing from 70 to 450 in the following eight years. Many employees were taken on when Thomas Cook ceased trading last year.

Head of Facilities Ian Holah said in the application to Peterborough City Council that there are currently only 212 spaces, forcing staff to park on nearby access roads.

Mr Holah said: "CDW is a very active recruiter in Peterborough and as the business is growing at a rapid rate, with multiple shifts and 24/7-365 operation, our currently planned future projects and new customers coming on board means that the requirement for additional staff is also constantly growing.

"Having no parking on-site presents a challenge in finding staff to join our company and unfortunately by not being able to improve this situation, CDW may be forced to search for alternative locations and consider relocating either part or all of its business as well as any current and future customer contracts who would require increased headcount present on site."

The supporting notes from agents Barker Storey Matthews state that the current inadequate on-site parking is leading to overflow onto adjacent roads, which then causes traffic congestion.

The notes say: "The additional car parking sought in this application is integral to the continued success of CDW Ltd and its long-term future in Peterborough.

"They are in a sector of IT that provides essential support to businesses and this has been demonstrated through the Covid 19 pandemic.

"25pc of their 450 staff will return to work by the end of July. With this low number of staff on site they would like to commence the development of the new car park as soon as possible to avoid major disruption when the balance of the staff return."