New hub designed to turn your business ideas into reality opens in Derbyshire
A business hub offering affordable premises and support to new local companies has launched in South Derbyshire. The Swadlincote Innovation Centre at Bob Wheeler House opened on Friday (May 6) and aims to support budding entrepreneurs through the start of their business journey.
Bob Wheeler House already has convenient business links. It is located on the George Holmes Business Park just off the A444 in Swadlincote and boasts modern office suites, a bookable meeting room with boardroom-style facilities, free on-site car parking and shared kitchen facilities.
The site was opened by the MP for South Derbyshire, Heather Wheeler, whose late husband Bob Wheeler was a former leader of South Derbyshire District Council and a local resident for nearly 30 years. The premises were named after the councillor who sadly lost his battle with cancer in 2018.
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Heather Wheeler said: “It’s a huge honour to be invited to open this fantastic business innovation centre. I am so proud of how Bob led the council for seven years, so this is a very special moment for me – thank you South Derbyshire District Council.”
The MP performed the ribbon-cutting duties, officially opening the remodelled building alongside Councillor Kevin Richards, leader of South Derbyshire District Council, Councillor Malcom Gee, chair of South Derbyshire District Council, and other council officers central to the project.
Cllr Richards said: “It was great to see these superb new facilities first-hand and be part of the launch of this fabulous new asset for our district. Bob Wheeler House will provide invaluable support and a stepping stone for many South Derbyshire people looking to set up in business and is a fitting tribute to Bob who dedicated so much of his life to serving the local community.”