A new multimillion-pound enterprise centre has opened to small and medium-sized businesses in Chard, Somerset. The workspace hub, which cost £4.2m, was provided by Somerset Council after the local authority secured £1.7m funding from the European Regional Development Fund.
Chard Enterprise Centre is part of a network of workspaces services offered by Somerset Council, which is aiming to provide workspace and business support in areas where commercial providers do not operate.
There are currently 10 sites across the county in addition to Chard – Highbridge, Dulverton, Wheddon Cross, Frome, Minehead, Wells, Williton, Wiveliscombe and Bruton.
Councillor Ros Wyke, executive lead member for economic development, planning and assets at Somerset Council, said: “As a council we want to enable local businesses to grow by providing the right accommodation and facilities alongside offering invaluable business support.”
Mr Wyke said the Enterprise Centre network represented “excellent value” for money and the sites would become self-financing in the long term with rental income covering running, maintenance, and renewal costs.
He added that Wells, Wiveliscombe and Bruton would identify a net return for every £1 invested ranging from £1.51 to £3.98. The three centres, along with Chard, leveraged more than £5m of external grant funding in rural locations.
“This is money going directly to our local economy and, where possible, funds for building the centres have been spent with local contractors,” he said.
The centre in Chard is already 49% full and one of the first businesses to move in was Paramount Embroidery.
Owner Dean Roscoe said: “Our move to the Enterprise Centre couldn’t have come at a better time. We were bursting out of our old space and stumbled upon this gem online. The place has all the bells and whistles we need – it’s modern, secure, and centrally located, ensuring our regular customers can still easily find us. Now, we’re within reach of many more towns. It’s the perfect upgrade for our growing business.”
Anna McGuire, owner of AM Healing, who has also recently moved into Chard Enterprise Centre, said: “Moving to the Chard Enterprise Centre has been a positive move for my Counselling Practice. I was searching for a space that offered the convenience of a private car park for myself and my clients, but also embraced views of greenery and privacy. The centre has delivered on all fronts.”
Like this story? Why not sign up to get the latest South West business news straight to your inbox.Story Saved
You can find this story in My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.