High flying business centre celebration
The final phase of a centre which has inspired business for more than a decade has been launched.
Ian Whittle, the son of Rugby-born pioneer Sir Frank Whittle whose achievements included the invention of the jet engine, joined dignitaries in launching the final phase of the Sir Frank Whittle Business Centre.
The business centre, based in Great Central Way, Rugby, began life in 1994 with the construction of 22 business units, and now the final phase wasmarked by the unveiling of a commemorative plaque as the complex grows to 42 business units.
Three new businesses have already moved in to the final phase of the scheme, a printing press company, a firm supplying spares for the mining industry and a business dealing in reconditioned and new machine tools.
Cllr Chris Saint, Warwickshire County Council’s Cabinet member for Economic Development, said: “This centre has become a local success story. Many people do not realise the work Warwickshire County Council does in ensuring the economic vitality of local communities.
“The Sir Frank Whittle Business Centre has enjoyed an average occupancy year on year for more than a decade of in excess of 90 per cent, and it has been as a result of demand for larger `grow-on’ units, that larger leasehold premises have been added.
“Sir Frank Whittle was a man who inspired others and I’m sure he would be proud to have his name associated with such an inspiring place to do business.”