A £2.5 million complex of offices and warehouses aiming to house offshore wind businesses has opened in Birkenhead, Wirral.
Called the Lightbox, the site has been developed by Capital and Centric Plc, and funded with £895,000 from Wirral Council after they secured £5 million from the Government’s Regional Growth Fund for resources to support the local development of the offshore renewable sector.
The Lightbox consists of six new super-energy efficient commercial units, including research, laboratory, and development space, Wirral Council said in a press release issued today.
Cllr Phil Davies, Leader of Wirral Council , said: “Wirral has a huge natural advantage in the offshore wind sector, and we are working hard to ensure that everything is in place for renewable energy businesses to make Wirral their home.
“This innovative new development offers real benefits to the local community and economy by providing state-of-the-art, sustainable accommodation for businesses who are leading the offshore wind sector.
“The new development will help us meet our 2020 pledges as once fully occupied, the development is expected to create more than 50 local jobs, increase inward investment and get local small businesses thriving.”
The investment to support the construction of the Lightbox, and the Turbine Business Park which is still being developed, is to overcome a lack of local suitable business premises for the offshore sector. It will support local business targeting the supply chain in the offshore and renewables sector.
Source: Wirral Council