‘Silicon Valley’ of technology to be created

A MULTI-million pound technology hub, which is set to create a centre of excellence for businesses within the sector, is to open in the region.  

The Globe Innovation Centre will be located at Globe Mills, a 150,000 sq ft multi-storey former textile factory at Slaithwaite, near Huddersfield, which itself is part of a multi-million regeneration project.

The £3m centre will be open to technology businesses, including those in the ‘environmental technology’ sector.

The project is the result of a joint venture between investment and property business the Hartley Group, technology company 3M, the University of Huddersfield and Kirklees Council. 

Technology Focus: (l-r) Stefan Gabriel, president of 3M New Ventures; Sir George Buckley, former chairman and chief executive of 3M; Alan Lewis, chairman of Hartley Group; Jacqui Gedman, director of investment and regeneration at Kirklees Council; and Professor Bob Cryan, vice-chancellor of the University of Huddersfield.

The four shareholders signed a joint-venture agreement on site yesterday to mark the first stage of the redevelopment which is scheduled for completion in 2013.

Hartley Group and 3M will act as ‘angel investors’ for promising entrepreneurial businesses in the technology sector as a whole, including environmental technology. 

When the first phase of the development is completed in 2013, tenants will be able to access a range of flexible research and business support services that will help them grow into successful producers of technology.  

The site will also comprise retail and leisure units and will meet market demand for quality, small, flexible business space and meeting rooms.

Stefan Gabriel, president of 3M New Ventures, said: “Innovation is at the heart of 3M’s philosophy and I am excited about how the Globe Innovation Centre can support our work to identify the technologies of tomorrow.

“By giving tenants the practical tools and support to successfully develop and commercialise their products, we hope to both be able to contribute to their growth in this vital area while building a pipeline to continue to strengthen 3M’s diverse portfolio.

“It will also allow us to identify promising entrepreneurs in whom we can invest directly and use our expertise to help the technologies they are developing achieve global success.”

Alan Lewis, chairman of Hartley Group, said: “We will be supporting and investing in tenants who represent start-up businesses, or established businesses seeking to expand. 

“Our vision, with our partners, is to establish Colne Valley as a major national business hub for the low-carbon economy, effectively a ‘Silicon Valley’ of technology development, including environmental technology.”

Professor Bob Cryan, vice-chancellor of the University of Huddersfield, said: “This project is a perfect example of how universities can work with both the public and private sectors to drive growth and contribute to the economic regeneration of the region. We are delighted to be a part of it.”

Hartley Group was advised by a team from law firm Gordons, led by head of corporate James Fawcett.