Government’s vacant property plan for SMEs

EMPTY government buildings in Bolton, Blackpool, Crewe and Runcorn are to be made available for start-up companies, it has been announced.

The five sites in the region are among 20 buildings across 18 locations  identified by the Department of Business as having the potential to be used by aspiring entrepreneurs to build and grow their businesses.

The buildings are; Atlas House, Bolton; Electra Way and Nantwich House in Crewe; Church Street, Blackpool and Castle View House in Runcorn

The Government is now inviting incubation and business start-up organisations to manage and allocate these spaces.

Business minister Mark Prisk said: “Many entrepreneurs struggle to find a suitably flexible and affordable space to start their business, so this is a practical measure which the Government is taking to support the next generation of businesses.

“Opening up areas that are not being used will give entrepreneurs access to the space they need to start and grow.”

Cabinet Office minister Francis Maude added: “”This Government saved over £100m in the last financial year alone by getting a tight grip on government property and using space more efficiently.

“In some cases it’s not possible to sell a building or exit a lease immediately when the space is no longer needed. Rather than letting these buildings sit empty at the taxpayers’ expense, we are making this space available to SMEs. This is an innovative measure that will support British business.”

Anyone interested in managing the spaces can register their interest at www.contractsfinder.businesslink.gov.uk. The process will be open until June 29.

The total space available across the country equates to more than 200,000 sq ft.