£6m update for business estate
One of Chichester’s industrial estates is once again open for business, after undergoing a £6million redevelopment.
St James Industrial Estate in Westhampnett Road, which is owned and managed by Chichester District Council, now offers 30 new industrial units for businesses to rent.
The estate, which was developed on an old council depot site in the early 1980s, needed updating and is part of the council’s desire to provide quality business accommodation throughout the district.
“It’s fantastic news that this important project has been completed and that our modern industrial premises are now available for businesses to benefit from,” said Cllr Tony Dignum, cabinet member for growth, place and regeneration.
“By making these changes, we have been able to bring the whole site back into use and deliver the quality accommodation that businesses have told us they want to see. “Inward investment and helping local businesses to grow and thrive is a key priority for us. We are doing a huge amount of work in this area - from encouraging businesses to relocate here, through to helping entrepreneurs and start-ups expand their businesses. We can’t wait to welcome businesses back onto the site and to see the positive impact this will have on the local economy.”
The industrial estate includes a mix of different units, the largest in the central block, where there are 10 spaces ranging from 213 to 240 sq m. These have the potential for tenants to fit out a mezzanine floor ranging from 107 to 120 sq m. The remaining 20 units are spread across a further four blocks and range from 53 to 60 sq m.
The site includes level access into every unit, increasing accessibility and meeting the needs of those using mobility aids. There are 32 electric vehicle charging points and solar panels on every building, helping to reduce carbon emissions. There is also a landscaping scheme, helping to improve the look and feel of the space.
This project has been supported by a £1,183,017 grant from Coast to Capital Local Enterprise Partnership from the Government’s Getting Building Fund, which aims to deliver jobs, skills and infrastructure across the county.