A £4.75 million 2,000 sq m development of new space - funded by the South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) to encourage new and small enterprises - has been opened.

Newhaven's Enterprise Centre was officially opened on 21 May by SEEDA Chairman, Jim Brathwaite.

The Centre has been developed by Lewes District Council in conjunction with specialist managed business centre operators Basepoint plc. It provides small workshop units, studios and offices which are offered on flexible terms - ideal for new and small businesses. Basepoint plc brings its expertise in operating 20 other similar centres across the South and Midlands to benefit new licensees at Newhaven. In addition, on site business advice and support is available from Sussex Enterprise.

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The Centre is only one of a small number of commercial buildings in the South East to have been awarded the much sought after 'Excellent' BREEAM rating for sustainability.

"Our aim is to promote a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation and contribute to the regeneration of Newhaven. We are particularly pleased that this project we have found new ways to achieve a low-carbon development and extremely pleased that this development has achieved the top industry rating, 'BREEAM excellent' standard," said SEEDA's Chairman Jim Brathwaite

Over the next 10 years an estimated 250 jobs and 100 new businesses are projected to be created at the Enterprise Centre. The building was designed to meet high sustainability criteria. It is located on a brownfield site which features sustainable grey water recycling and photovoltaic panels that convert the sun's rays into electricity.

The Centre provides small workshop units, studios and offices which are offered on flexible terms - ideal for new and small businesses. On site business advice and support is available from Sussex Enterprise.

(JM)