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SEEDA Supports Woodworking in the Chilterns with Acquisition of Key Site
07th December 2004
A 300 year old tradition of woodworking in the Chilterns is set to receive a huge boost with the establishment of a new Enterprise Gateway building, providing business opportunities for the furniture industry.
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) announced today the strategic acquisition of a 2.4 ha brownfield site at Princes Risborough from furniture manufacturer Ercol Furniture Ltd. The plot of land, which is located adjacent to Ercol’s award winning factory, is in an ideal location for the proposed new Chilterns Enterprise Gateway building.
The Enterprise Gateway building will significantly contribute to the success and growth of small and start-up businesses in the sector by offering them flexible workspace and business support. Up to 2,500 sq m of high quality shared craft furniture making workshops, gallery space, design studios, a visitor centre with café and office accommodation will be provided. Business entrepreneurs will be able to access professional support in planning, marketing and product development, along with training in management and skills. On-site business mentors will also be on hand to offer advice.
The building will be of a high quality design, reflecting the semi rural environment and the high design standard set by the adjoining Ercol building, which has won numerous awards, including a SEEDA Sustainable Business Award in 2003.
SEEDA's Development Projects Director, Peter Cusdin, said: "SEEDA's investment in the Enterprise Gateway facility will address the shortage of starter units in the area and provide a showcase for innovative new furniture products and designs."
The creation of the Enterprise Gateway comes as welcome news to local furniture manufacturers and designers. SEEDA will work with local partners to bring forward design proposals for the building.
Helping to retain and develop furniture making skills in the region will also benefit design graduates of two major furniture industry colleges located in the area, with over 90 percent of the students at Buckinghamshire Chilterns University College and Rycotewood College expressing aspirations to start their own businesses.
Chilterns Enterprise Gateway Director, Susan Kurr commented: "Everyone involved in the Chilterns Enterprise Gateway is absolutely delighted that SEEDA has now secured land on which to build our own premises. It is a real milestone for us and we can't wait to start the design and planning process to get the building underway. With four Designer Furniture Makers already in the project we are very much in need of new workshops and display space."
Chairman of Ercol Furniture Ltd, Edward Tadros said: "Ercol Furniture is delighted that the Chilterns Enterprise Gateway is getting underway now. We have been making furniture in the local district for over 80 years and always set great store in the training and development of the craftsmen and women who make such beautiful furniture in this area.
"We are delighted to see such a boost being given to people just setting out in their business careers. We are hoping that there will be lots of synergies between our people and people working at the Gateway, and between what we make and what is made by these new craftsmen and women."
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