Private developer Tidebank UK Ltd, based in Hayling Island, in association with Highglade Properties Ltd, based in Bognor Regis, have agreed lease terms with the South West RDA (Regional Development Agency) to build 2,844m2 of work and office space.
The Maritime Business Centre at Osprey Court (Plot F) is still subject to planning and will incorporate 17 units in three blocks, available to lease or buy. The high-spec business space units will range in size from 117m2 to 294m2 and will be aimed at small to medium sized enterprises in the marine sector.
They will be designed to the highest environmental standards in construction – BREEAM Excellent. BREEAM is the world’s most widely used environmental assessment method for new buildings.
Tidebank and Highglade are working with the South West RDA on preparing detailed plans for the new facilities, which will include 80 parking spaces and secure yards. If approved, construction is expected to begin in the spring of 2010 and be completed by the end of the year.
The South West RDA bought Osprey Quay, a former Royal Navy Air Station, in 2000. Alison Hatcher, Head of Regeneration for the South West RDA in Dorset, said: “We’re working hard to provide globally-renowned facilities at Portland – the RDA is investing around £40 million to create a centre for marine business and leisure activity. Osprey Quay is an excellent location and with its on-going regeneration, the Agency is delighted that this development will provide further opportunities for the growth of the vitally important marine sector in this area.”
Barrie Jones, Director at Highglade Properties Ltd, commented: “We have already had a lot of interest in the units at the Maritime Business Centre on Portland, including local companies who are looking to move to these fantastic new facilities once they’re built. The development follows our theme of similar schemes we have developed along the South Coast, which have proved highly popular with local occupiers due to their size, quality of their design and build when combined with a sensible price or lease package.”
Kevin Jones, Director at Tidebank UK Ltd added: “The development is part of the much larger Osprey Quay scheme and is a prime location for any marine-based business. The Maritime Business Centre represents over £2 million of inward investment into the local economy and will go a long way in creating jobs in the area. It also shows our confidence in Osprey Quay being at the forefront of the regeneration of Portland and Weymouth.”
Geoff Petherick, Brief Holder for Economic Development at Weymouth & Portland Borough Council, said: “I am very pleased that the new business units at Osprey Quay are to be proposed as part of a new planning application. The potential to bring new business investment and well-paid employment to Weymouth & Portland is a major priority for the Borough Council, and it is very encouraging to learn this positive news, especially in the current financial climate – it is an indicator that the local economy is working its way out of the recession. I believe that Osprey Quay is an excellent location for prospective business people, and there is a good prospect that it will attract some highly successful new ventures to the area.”
Osprey Quay is located at the gateway to the Isle of Portland, adjacent to the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy (WPNSA), the UK’s world class sailing academy. It is also the home of the 2012 Olympic Sailing Venue.
Sunseeker are well established with 11½ acres available to build their range of super yachts and Dean and Reddyhoff have already opened their 720 berth Portland Marina.
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