North East BIC stretches south to offer more support
CENTRE OF ATTENTION
The North East BIC has extended its support to businesses in the south of the region with a second Darlington business centre . We find out what ’ s been happening since the grand opening .
Innovation Central is well and truly open for business ! The doors to the £ 8m centre were thrown open last November and already the place is buzzing with activity and entrepreneurial potential .
Designed to provide a creative , collaborative and supportive environment where ideas people can be inspired , the Central Park building is already attracting businesses with solutions to real-life challenges in sectors as varied as training , food technology and healthcare .
Centre manager Vanessa Wood said : “ It ’ s really exciting to see the centre bursting into life with new tenants and a programme of exciting events that introduce people to our stunning building .
“ The spaces and facilities were carefully designed with the needs of today ’ s businesses in mind .
“ Our tenants really like the size of the spaces and the spec we have on offer , they like the proximity to the town centre and the excitement of being on Central Park as it continues to develop .
“ They appreciate being charged separately for energy so they can save on cost and reduce consumption . And they like being part of the bigger business community that exists between here and our sister site Business Central .
“ But Innovation Central is not only proving attractive to start-ups and established businesses from on the doorstep , it ’ s also an exciting option for businesses in Wearside and Tyneside which are looking for a base in the south of the region .”
Built to meet BREEAM sustainability credentials , its 45 Grade A offices and five labs not only share bright and airy spaces but also wrap-around business support , events and facilities .
Innovation Central and Business Central are owned by Darlington Borough Council and are managed by the North East BIC .
Book a tour
Innovation Central is jointly funded by Darlington Borough Council , the European Regional Development Fund ( ERDF ), £ 3.55m from the Tees Valley Combined Authority , and the government ’ s Getting Building Fund .
A connected community
Innovation Central is just minutes from its sister business centre Business Central . Together , the centres have created a connected business hub , providing a choice of co-working , office and lab space , along with services to support healthy businesses and lifestyles .
Tenants benefit from shared facilities including meeting rooms , a gym and micro spa .
Want to see Innovation Central for yourself ? Email enquiries @ innovationcentraldarlington . co . uk to arrange a visit .
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