Friday December 13 2024
Swindon & Wiltshire News
Work has started on Phase 2 of the £35m Castledown Business Park scheme in Ludgershall.
Paul Johnson, chairman of the Wiltshire and Swindon Local Enterprise Partnership (pictured left) and Wiltshire Council leader Jane Scott were on hand to help contractors from St Modwen, the UK’s leading regeneration specialist, cut the first turf on Wednesday.
St Modwen, the developer of the 33 acre employment site, which is owned by Wiltshire Council,will deliver Brydges Court, 33,650 sq ft of new accommodation in 15 units designed for office, storage and industrial use, on behalf of the council.
The units, which range from 700 sq ft to 6,000 sq ft will be available to purchase or rent through Alder King, and will be ready for occupation during January 2014.
It follows the successful fully let first phase, Fitz Gilbert Court, a 21 unit scheme comprising 27,500 sq ft which was completed by St Modwen in 2008.
Wiltshire Council own and manage Fitz Gilbert Court, which includes Castledown Business Centre and the new Castledown Enterprise Centre.
In March 2013, the Swindon and Wiltshire Local Enterprise Partnership (SWLEP) awarded Wiltshire Council an interest free loan of £2,535,000 from the Growing Places Infrastructure Fund to bring Phase 2 forward.
The funding has been offered to bring forward development of the site to allow businesses in phase one to expand, freeing up space for new start up companies.
Peter Davies, development manager for St Modwen, said: “On the back of the successful first phase of development, we’re delighted to be working with the council to deliver a larger second phase that will help drive jobs and business opportunities in the area.
“The next units will offer existing companies room to remain on site and grow, whilst also offering flexible accommodation for new occupiers seeking a strategically located business environment.
“We are also continuing to market the remaining 20 acres at Castledown Business Park where buildings can be delivered to meet occupier requirements to purchase or rent.”
Clrr Scott, said: “I’m delighted we have reached the next phase of this project.We are committed to supporting new and existing local businesses, and with the new facilities and set-up at the business park, it gives them the best opportunity to grow.”
Mr Johnson said: “Phase 2 of the development at Castledown represents an exciting investment for the Growing Places Infrastructure Fund.
“It will not only provide incubation space but also space for businesses to grow into, supporting economic growth in the area. We’re delighted to be a part of the project.”
