Progress made on innovation hub project

Work is progressing on the construction of a low carbon innovation hub for high-tech industries in the East Midlands, which is on track for completion next year.On behalf of Leicester City Council, Brackley Property Developments (BPD) is completing the expansion of the Dock managed workspace development at Pioneer Park, within Leicester’s Science and Innovation Enterprise Zone.The development will create about 43,000 sq ft of office space for up to 45 businesses, and a terrace of nine manufacturing units providing more than 21,500 sq ft.Known as Docks 3, 4 and 5, the sustainable buildings will be net carbon zero in operation and include a range of environmentally friendly features, such as low energy LED lighting, roof mounted photovoltaic panels, air source heat pumps, and super-thick insulation. There will also be cycle storage and provision for electric vehicles.Stephen Pedrick-Moyle, managing director of BPD, said: “We have made excellent progress on the extension of the Dock innovation hub at Space City Leicester.”This outstanding new development will provide purpose-built managed accommodation for high-tech businesses and complement the look and feel of the original Dock workspace buildings.”Leicester City Council is retaining the freehold of the buildings, with accommodation being made available on a leasehold basis. The scheme is programmed for completion in April 2024.The project is being supported by £12m from the government’s Levelling Up Fund while the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership is providing £4.5m from Enterprise Zone retained business rates and Leicester City Council.