Work begins on new enterprise centre to support Portsmouth’s entrepreneurs and startups

City Buildings has broken ground on a new development in the heart of Portsmouth, set to house 14 new offices and a co-working space for small to medium sized enterprises.

Scheduled to open later this year on the site of the former Job Centre and Playland, the centre has already secured a major tenant, with a host of other local businesses also interested.

It follows the opening of three similar facilities across the city at Somers Road North, Sharps Close, and Quartremaine Road, each offering low cost, adaptable units for office and light industrial use.

Alan Lowe, manager at Portsmouth Enterprise Centres, said: “This is an exciting opportunity for Portsmouth’s city centre.

“There’s a real desire from businesses for premises and to be located centrally close to all transport links.

“Plus, new businesses will increase a regular footfall to the retail offering nearby.”

The development comes as part of the council’s wider programme to regenerate the city centre, creating a greener and more vibrant space while supporting the local economy.

Jane Lamer, head of economic development and skills at Portsmouth City Council, added: “This is about giving people a first step up and aligning business support closely with growing the economy.

“We offer favourable terms designed to support start-ups and small to medium sized businesses.

“The centres welcome people with varying perspectives. From film companies to surveyors to mechanics, we have a range of businesses in our centres.”

• portsmouthenterprisecentres.co.uk