West Northamptonshire Council has appointed specialist innovation centre management company, Oxford Innovation Space, to manage Vulcan Works Creative Hub, a new innovation centre for Northampton’s small creative businesses.
Located in the heart of the town’s Cultural Quarter and Waterside Enterprise Zone, Vulcan Works consists of 68 lettable units specifically aimed at start-ups and growing businesses within the creative industry.
West Northamptonshire Council has led the multi-million regeneration project to transform the area, including two new buildings, along with the renovation of a former ironworks and a collection of old and derelict industrial workshops, to provide local creative businesses with studios, workshops, and managed workspaces. It is anticipated that during its first ten years of operation, Vulcan Works will support up to 150 businesses across the county, creating around 500 jobs.
With over 30 years at the forefront of providing support to start-ups, Oxford Innovation Space successfully manages innovation centres throughout the UK, providing expert support and knowledge to drive business growth and regional success.
Jo Stevens, Managing Director, Oxford Innovation, said: “We’re delighted to be managing this new centre that is part of such an inspiring rejuvenation project. We pride ourselves on our ability to provide bespoke support for all businesses within our centres. It’s much more than a workspace, we build innovative communities, that with the expert support from our innovation directors, are encouraged to grow and thrive.”
She added: “Northampton has been identified as one of the top 10 innovative places in the UK. We’re really looking forward to help drive this further and maximise the innovative spirit of the town.”
South East Midlands Local Enterprise Partnership (SEMLEP) has contributed £6.3m towards the £14m scheme, through the Local Growth Fund and a further £3m contribution coming from the Waterside Enterprise Zone.
Cllr Daniel Lister, cabinet member for economic development, town centre regeneration and growth at West Northamptonshire Council, said: “Oxford Innovation has a fantastic track record in managing sites like Vulcan Works and we’re very lucky to have them on board. I know with their guidance and support, the small creative businesses choosing the site as their home will go from strength to strength.”
The workspaces are expected to be available from early next year.
