British Business Parks is a unique initiative developed
on industrial estates in urban areas of the country. At
its core is the concept of business leadership and self-help.
The initiative started in Walsall, West Midlands,
where in the1980’s a major industrial estate
spiralled into decline. The estate was home to 45 predominately
small companies engaged in manufacturing.
By
the mid 1980’s the downward spiral was in full
flow and companies were moving away. A small handful
of owners had the vision to visualise what could be achieved
with commitment and determination.
 The
assistance of a number of partner organisations was sought
and the embryo of a unique partnership was conceived.
An informal committee was established and a small group
elected to represent the interests of the companies.
A company, limited by guarantee was formed - Premier
Business Park Limited – the first business park.
Driven
by the local business community but with close partnership
links with key stakeholders, such as Chamber of Commerce,
Business Link, the local authority, and Police, its success
in the ensuing five years was evident:
- Employment
grew by 49%
- Five
new companies moved in
- Businesses
invested over £7.2
million
Its
success attracted local, regional and national government
interest and in 1998, supported
by the DETR, British
Business Parks Limited was set up to develop
the concept nationwide.
Since then, BBP has worked with agencies
across the country from Sussex in the South to North
Tyneside
in the North
East.
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