Case Studies

Shine - building the future

Challenge
Harehills in Leeds ranks among the most economically - and socially-deprived parts of the UK and was one of five neighbourhoods in the city that benefited from 20m in Local Enterprise Growth Initiative (LEGI) money awarded to Leeds City Council.

Recognising the potential in a dilapidated Grade-II listed Victorian former middle school to become the heart of the areas enterprise-driven regeneration, Camberwell fought a two-year battle to save the building from demolition and secure 4.5m in public and private funding to transform it into an innovative enterprise centre.

Implementation
Camberwell has created a viable mixed-use development incorporating high-quality serviced office accommodation alongside flexible, pay-as-you-go space for fledgling businesses coupled with conferencing and much more.

Opening with an occupancy level of 70 per cent, Shine is set to be a major engine for economic change in Harehills acting as a beacon for entrepreneurs and people with ideas to network, share best practice and support each other.

The building is owned and managed by Harehills Community Interest Company so that its value is retained by the community and profits ploughed back into further investment.

Benefits
Opened August 2008, the centre is set to generate:

  • 20 business starts
  • 50 businesses accommodated
  • People from disadvantaged groups employed
  • 36,000 sq ft of business space created

Where can I found out more?
www.shineinharehills.co.uk

www.my-catalyst.co.uk

www.leedsahead.com