Research recently carried out into Derby's office space suggests
that office take-up within the city is on the increase - a trend
that is mirrored at the city's principal business incubation units,
according to Louise Jones, incubation manager at the iD Centre.
The research, which was conducted by commercial property agents
Innes England, reflects the steady increase that has been recorded
at the iD Centre in Derby, which has experienced an increase in
occupancy levels of more than 12% in recent months.
The Centre, which is located within the former rtc Business Park
on London Road, is a specially equipped business incubation centre
for new and fledgling companies in rail and technology
industries.
During the height of the recession in 2009, its occupancy levels
fell to just 65%, but it now boasts more than 20 tenant
businesses, with further growth predicted for during the rest of
the year.
Commenting on the continued increase in occupany levels, Louise
Jones said:
"Like most businesses, we were affected by the impact of the
recession, which was reflected in our occupancy levels during 2009
and into 2010. However, the iD Centre has experienced significant
growth over the past four months, which would support the view in
the recent report that the overall demand for office space in the
city is showing major signs of improvement.
"So far this year we have welcomed five new tenants to the
centre and a number of existing tenants have expanded their teams
and have moved into larger office space within the centre, or one
of our sister incubation units," added Louise.
The iD Centre is a fully serviced business incubation facility
specially for technology-based and engineering businesses, with 32
fully furnished office units ranging from 105 sq ft to 438 sq
ft.
All units have a staffed reception, meeting rooms with video
conferencing facility, kitchen facilities, subsidised restaurant,
free parking and a 360-degree business incubation support package.
The iD Centre is supported by the European Regional Development
Fund (EDRF), a programme, which provides funding to economic
regeneration schemes and organisations regionally.