Commercial
Enterprise Centre
East Northants
27,000 ft² of modern, managed business space comprising a three-storey office building and single-storey studios and workshops, delivering approximately 80 to 90 business units of varying sizes from 100 ft² to 450 ft².
Client: East Northamptonshire Council
cost
£5.6M
duration
13 Months
Project Management
Cost Management
Employer's Agent
The Opportunity
The East Northants Enterprise Centre (ECEN) formed a key part of the Council’s strategy to support SMEs and start-up businesses. It delivered the Enterprising East Northants programme, which underpinned the Council’s wider Economic Development, Tourism and Regeneration Strategy. The project also supported the strategic priorities of the Government’s Industrial Strategy and the South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership’s Strategic Economic Plan.
The Challenges
Delivering a project of this scale was a first for the Council. To achieve its vision, TPI supported the funding process and managed a robust tender, in line with OJEU rules, to appoint the design team and main contractor. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and new restrictions were introduced, TPI responded quickly, managing the project carefully to minimise disruption and maintain progress on site.
The Outcome
All necessary funding was secured and a capable delivery team appointed to meet the Council’s objectives. Despite the disruption caused by the pandemic, the project was completed in June 2020 with all required safety measures in place. The centre now plays a key role in supporting local businesses and economic growth across the district.