RECORD numbers of businesses are coming to Huddersfield’s Media Centre, it has been revealed.
The complex at Northumberland Street is now home to more than 50 businesses and some 500 workers – with several firms moving from outside the town to take advantage of the lower cost and higher quality office space available.
Occupancy levels have risen from two-thirds to more than 90% in the past six months.
The centre is home to a bustling community of creative enterprises, including design and marketing firms, architects and arts organisations.
Chief executive Teo Greenstreet said: “These are the highest occupancy levels we’ve ever had, and we are dealing with more enquiries for office space every week.
“The credit crunch, rising fuel prices and inflation has seen many companies reviewing whether they are getting the best possible value and services from their outlay on offices and we are clearly benefiting from that.
“We are in the enviable position of being able to offer some of the most high-tech offices and best networking opportunities in the north and at up to 50% less than comparable offices in places such as Leeds.”
Said Mr Greenstreet: “Companies based here can grow or contract without moving, which is crucial in the current climate.
“As Huddersfield has established itself as a centre for creative businesses over the last few years, we are also seeing a snowball effect with other companies wanting to come here.”
Latest arrivals include graphic design company The Engine Room, which moved from Leeds, and marketing agency Collaborator, which is moving from Bradford.
Darren Evans, creative director for The Engine Room, said: “We loved the buzz of the place when we came to The Media Centre for a meeting and we ended up moving in.
“We’ve saved huge amounts of time by not having to commute to Leeds every day and we’ve got far more office space for the same amount of money.”
Lisa Cosway, director of Collaborator, said: “Many of our staff live in Halifax and the rising cost of fuel and the congestion problems in commuting to Bradford were key factors in moving to Huddersfield.
“We chose The Media Centre because we liked the services that are offered, the rent and rates are very competitive and there is the flexibility for the businesses to grow as well as great networking opportunities.”
The thriving Media Centre expanded its capacity last year with the opening of its landmark glass-clad five storey building on Friendly Street. The building rates as the country’s most environmentally-friendly business centre, was officially opened by the Queen last year.
