Portsmouth’s new enterprise centre bears fruit as first occupiers Citrus Service Group move in

Citrus Service Group has become the first business to take premises at Portsmouth City Council’s new enterprise centre.

The centre is located on Commercial Road at the site of the former Job Centre and Playland, with space for co-working and 14 new offices.

Liam Hibberd, operations director at Citrus Services, said: “We’re thrilled to be the first company to move into the City Buildings Enterprise Centre.

“This location offers not just a strategic advantage, but also a vibrant community for our team.

“Being part of this innovative space allows us to expand our operations efficiently, collaborate and grow alongside other emerging businesses.

“The facilities and support available here are exceptional. We believe it will play a significant role in our growth and success.”

Citrus began life as a small security company offering manned security services, before growing and moving into offices at Victory Business Centre in Fratton – one of the council’s other enterprise centres.

The company then bought up several cleaning companies and other security firms, before acquiring the city’s longest running IT service company.

With 314 staff across the UK, Citrus had outgrown its former unit and was looking for a new home.

Meanwhile, the council had begun refurbishment work on a new enterprise centre last June.

Like others around the city, it’s designed to support startups and small businesses by providing lower rents than elsewhere.

A spokesperson for the council said: “We’re delighted to welcome Citrus Services to our new enterprise centre and support their growth.

“City Buildings Enterprise Centre is an exciting opportunity for Portsmouth’s city centre. There’s a real need for premises and to be located centrally close to all transport links.

“We offer favourable terms for startups and small to medium sized business, and welcome businesses from a variety of sectors, from film companies to surveyors to mechanics.”

• portsmouthenterprisecentres.co.uk

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