New 'Skills and Innovation Centre' planned at Stowmarket's Gateway 14 business park
It's hoped the project will bring together local startups and students
A new 'Skills and Innovation Centre' is planned at Stowmarket's new Gateway 14 business park, in move that could help boost local startups.
Mid Suffolk District Council is putting together an initial business case for the project, which will include new workspaces, meeting rooms and spaces for learning.
Gateway 14 is a state-of-the-art business park which is one of three parts of the new Freeport East, which also includes the ports of Felixstowe and Harwich.
It will eventually provide almost 2.4 million sq ft of space for firms involved in R&D, manufacturing and logistics, at a site just off the A14.
Councillor Harry Richardson, deputy leader at Mid Suffolk District Council said:
“The Skills and Innovation Centre provides an exciting opportunity for small businesses, start-ups and those looking for grow-on spaces."
"There is a huge demand for innovative workspace solutions and the new centre will help attract new investment to the region and in turn boost the local economy.”
The business case for the new centre is being developed in collaboration with local universities, as well as West Suffolk College, in the hope students will be able to use the space to learn new skills and gain work experience.
Councillor Suzie Morley, leader, Mid Suffolk District Council added:
“Almost 90% of businesses in Mid Suffolk are categorised as micro – employing up to 9 people."
"The flexible workspace will provide a unique opportunity for those small businesses – as well as offering conference and training spaces for a wide range of businesses.”