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New businesses studios opened today in Hayes – part of the London Development Agency’s work to support and promote business in London. The £1 million Hayes Business Studios were opened by the leader of Hillingdon Council Ray Puddifoot at the site on Uxbridge College’s Hayes Community Campus.

The studios provide subsidised accommodation and support to people starting up their own businesses. Such support is a proven way to help new companies get on their feet and thrive. The Hayes Business Studios have been developed with LDA funding with Hillingdon Council, Uxbridge College, Heathrow City Partnership and Hillingdon Community Trust.

London Development Agency Chief Executive Peter Rogers said:

“It is the London Development Agency’s job to help London’s businesses grow and prosper. Incubator space like the Hayes Business Studios plugs a real gap in the market. They let new businesses start up and get the support they need to survive and add to London’s economic success.”

Laraine Smith, Principal of Uxbridge College, said:

“Hayes Business Studios are a great addition to Hayes Community Campus, and build on Uxbridge College’s 40 years of experience working with employers. The studios offer vital support through subsidised rent, mentorship and training to help fledgling companies grow and succeed. The philosophy behind the studios reflects the College’s other work preparing people of all ages for employment, something we have a great record of achievement on, and which is a key part our success.”

Cllr Ray Puddifoot, Leader of Hillingdon Council, said:

"The Hayes Business Studio is a new and exciting resource within Hillingdon. A dedicated, modern, affordable space which will offer support for young entrepreneurs taking the first tentative steps into the world of business. By investing in our young people we are also making an investment in the long-term prosperity of the Hayes area because we are raising skills, ambition and achievement, and encouraging innovative thinking."

The 10 studios, between 15m² to 17m², will have subsidised rent and will also include:
• Support and advice to help businesses grow
• Meeting/training room facilities
• Internet access
• Direct street access to modern reception & coffee pod area
• Parking and excellent travel links to central London, Heathrow and the local area
• Spaces all on flexible lease terms
• Office cleaning services, on-site caretaking and security

Two of the studios are already occupied, by Devine Care, an agency for care workers, and Exhale Training Solutions, which provides work-related training in areas including IT, customer service and business administration.

Occupants will also be able to use all the facilities at the Hayes Community Campus, including Lifestyles fitness suite and restaurant, hair and beauty salons, and take advantage of additional free and subsidised training.


For further information, contact the LDA Media Team: Robert Beasley 020 7593 8437; out of hours media enquiries 07977 439371; public enquiries 020 7593 9000.

For more information about the site, contact Martin Blandy, Hayes Business Studios manager, on 01895 851010 or email mblandy@uxbridgecollege.ac.uk. Also see www.hayesbusinessstudios.co.uk 


Notes for editors

The London Development Agency aims to improve the quality of life for all Londoners - working to create jobs, develop skills and promote economic growth. In the current economic downturn, the LDA plans to build on its annual £150 million investment in business support, skills and jobs. For more information, visit the website: www.lda.gov.uk/keepinglondonworking 


For further information please contact:
Robert Beasley, Acting Head of Media
Tel: 020 7593 8437 Mob: 07790 907568 robertbeasley@lda.gov.uk 
LDA out of hours: 07977 439371 Public enqs: 020 7593 9000