Business event points way to progress

A West Midlands business support event at London and Cambridge Properties’ (LCP) new £1.5 million Progress Point development attracted dozens of owners of small firms.

The development – 21,000 sq ft of high-spec industrial and warehouse units on The Pensnett Estate in Kingswinford – was officially unveiled by Black Country Chamber president Ninder Johal.

The Black Country Business Support event showcased a range of relocation and inward investment opportunities that are available across the Black Country.

More than 13 business support organisations exhibited, including Invest Black Country, Dudley Business First, Dudley Council Employment Scheme, and the Growth Accelerator Programme.

The Skills Factory, Chamber of Commerce, Federation of Small Businesses, and the Manufacturing Advice Service also attended to offer their advice to entrepreneurs.

Andrew Preston, industrial property manager at LCP, said: “We were pleased to see so many Black Country-based business owners attend the event in one of our new Progress Point units.

“There is plenty of support for local businesses if they know where to look and we know from the feedback we received that many found the event very useful having received valuable advice that will help them develop their companies.”

Ninder Johal, president of the Chamber, said: “The Black Country has many start-ups and entrepreneurs who need the right support to help them develop their businesses and this excellent event has enabled many to find out what is available for them.

“Having such an event at Progress Point, which was a new build development, shows that confidence is growing once more in the region and that it is a great place to do business.”

Work was completed on Progress Point in February, a month ahead of schedule. Interest has already been high on the units and the first tenant is due to be unveiled in the next few weeks.  Units from 1,500 sq.ft are available.

The Pensnett Estate, which is owned and managed by LCP, comprises approximately 2.3 million sq ft on a site of 185 acres, with 25 acres for future development of speculative or purpose built premises. Existing tenants include Helix, Kennametal, Sven Christiansen, Intralox, Handicare and Booker Cash & Carry.