Marketing and advertising firm BRAVEDOG has been unveiled by Forward Swindon as the first tenant of a new business centre at Swindon’s Carriage Works.
The Carriage Works are being developed in phases on a demand-led basis. Forward Swindon, Swindon Borough Council’s regeneration company, secured planning permission for the first phase of development in February 2017 to deliver 200 work spaces, along with meeting rooms and facilities. Refurbishment of an initial 7,000 sq.ft is due to be completed in December and will be available to tenants soon after; while a further 6,000 sq.ft will be refurbished and open for business from Spring next year.
Nick Prescott, BRAVEDOG’s managing director, said: “We are delighted to be moving to our new home at the Carriage Works. It’s an amazing building that forges tonnes of heritage with an ultra-smart 21st century environment. BRAVEDOG is committed to helping Forward Swindon to deliver their vision, for the Carriage Works become the centre of tech, creative and innovation in the area.”
An operator is being appointed to manage the refurbished space, on behalf of the Council, as a business incubation centre for small and growing businesses. The operator will be incentivised to deliver targets for generating income for the Council and supporting business development.
Paul Chamberlain, Forward Swindon’s Director of New Development Partnerships, said: “We are a step closer to delivering our long-term vision for the Carriage Works – restoring life to the buildings and bringing innovation back to where it belongs.”
Cllr Garry Perkins, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Regeneration, added: “It’s great to welcome BRAVEDOG to the Carriage Works. Nick and his team have visited the site on several occasions and seen for themselves that we’re delivering something Swindon will be proud of. The Council will be setting out the details of future development phases over the next couple of months.”
Forward Swindon are hosting an open day for potential tenants of the Carriage Works business centre on 30 November 2017.
