New enterprise centre takes another step forward

Plans to create a new enterprise centre in Braintree takes another step forward after councillors approved the financial proposals at a meeting of Braintree District Council’s Full Council last week (Monday, 5 October).

The three-storey centre, to be located on the new Horizon 120 business and innovation park being built at Great Notley, could be built to support local start-ups as well as help small businesses innovate, develop and grow. It will be a place where businesses can collaborate, access support and advice and build-up knowledge and skills.

The ambition is to create a state-of-the-art, energy efficient complex with shared meeting rooms, flexible work spaces, conference and training facilities and offices for smaller businesses to grow into.

Plans for the building include a roof terrace where workers can enjoy views over the countryside and country park. A café or restaurant, with a plaza area, is also being considered to serve employees working at the park and residents living in the local area.

It is intended to create up to 150 new jobs a year.

The funding is being partly provided by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership which has been allocated £7 million (in principle) from the Government’s “Getting Building Fund.” The Council intends to fund the balance once this grant has been paid.

The budget allocation is subject to the “Getting Building” grant being released and approval of the business case which will be discussed at a meeting of the Cabinet on Wednesday, 21 October and by the South East Local Enterprise Partnership on Friday, 20 November.

Subject to the approvals, building work could begin early next year.

Cllr Cunningham, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Economic Development and Infrastructure at Braintree District Council, said: “This is an exciting and innovative proposal which will not only encourage business growth, but also beyond that provide long term business support to enable that growth. This investment will lead to a wider residual benefit which will benefit the local area for many years to come.”

Cllr McKee, Cabinet Member for Corporate Transformation at Braintree District Council, said: “This state-of-the-art complex will be a great proposition for small and start-up businesses looking to grow and expand. Our commitment to this project shows that we are doing our part in creating jobs and building skills and generating the momentum needed to help our local economy recover in the wake of this pandemic.”

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