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Innovation centres in jobs boost

Despite the recession, the number of staff employed by tenant businesses at Mansfield iCentre, Newark Beacon and Worksop Turbine increased from 345 in May 2011 to 399 a year later.

The largest increase in jobs - 34 - was at Worksop Turbine, with an additional 15 at Mansfield iCentre and four at Newark Beacon.

The number of tenant businesses also increased at the three centres in the same period - from 83 to 90 - which contributed to an increase in the occupancy level from 71 per cent to 72.7 per cent.

Five businesses "graduated" after out-growing the innovation centres and moving into their own newly purchased or other leased premises.

"We took the decision to combine the management of Nottinghamshire three innovation centres last year, which is really reaping rewards for the economy in north Nottinghamshire," said councillor Keith Girling, chairman of economic development at Nottinghamshire County Council.

"I am delighted how the innovation centres have progressed in the past 12 months, which is remarkable against the backdrop of a recession."

The innovation centres are owned by the county council, the respective district council in each area and the Homes and Communities Agency. Oxford Innovation was appointed on a five-year contract in March 2011 to run the centres.

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