A ceremony has been held to mark the ‘Topping Out’ of The Hive Business Centre being built in the Business Quarter at Weston Park, part of the Junction 21 Enterprise area of Weston-super-Mare.
The event denotes the completion of the roof of the exciting new business centre which is being built for North Somerset Enterprise Agency. Once open in Spring 2014, it will deliver an array of on-site business support, resources and services as well as the flexible office space that North Somerset’s start-up, small and growing businesses need, all under one roof.
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Angela Hicks, Chief Executive of North Somerset Enterprise Agency, was invited by Bill Badham, Managing Director of regional contractor Pollard, to complete the roof watched by members of the Enterprise Agency’s Board of Trustees, the design and construction team and supporters of the project including several North Somerset Councillors and Triodos Bank.
The new development has been enabled by an investment from the European Regional Development Fund, alongside funding from North Somerset Enterprise Agency, a not-for-profit organisation with social objectives, which will own, manage and be based at The Hive.
Commenting on the event, Bill Badham said: “The Topping Out ceremony signifies an important stage of a construction project, traditionally referring to the completion of the structure. We are delighted to be marking this event today and look forward to handing over the completed building later this year.
“The exact origins of topping out are unknown, but evidence exists that the practice took place in Roman Times and in ancient Egypt, and would involve human sacrifice. Today topping outs often feature an evergreen tree being placed upon the structure to symbolise growth and bring good luck, a tradition which originates from ancient China.”
“The Hive is the dedicated business centre that North Somerset’s business community asked for and we are proud to be delivering it.” says Angela Hicks, Chief Executive of North Somerset Enterprise Agency. “We have long wanted to offer a complete package of workspace and support to help local businesses succeed and grow and The Hive will be where it all comes together.
“It is fantastic to now be able to see this impressive building – which is designed to be both energy-efficient and sustainable – take shape and we are grateful for the hard work of our building team in bringing The Hive to this important stage.”
Cllr Nigel Ashton, Leader of North Somerset Council said: “This is an exciting project for Weston and North Somerset that North Somerset Council has been keen to support. It is the first purpose built managed workspace in the area designed to support local business and is a symbolic development in a new business area for Weston. The focus on new and small business is critical to the growth of the local economy and it is great to see the building work progressing so well.”
A preview evening is being planned for November by North Somerset Enterprise Agency to enable local businesses to find out more about what will be on offer to them – from professional, flexible and affordable workspace including fully-equipped offices with short-term easy-in, easy-out leases to dedicated broadband and a managed business reception.
For local businesses who don’t yet need permanent space, virtual offices and meeting rooms will also be available.
