Case Studies

A catalyst for change

Challenge
Despite the strong perceptions of the City's overall economic success, 46,000 people in Leeds are still living in areas which fall within the 3% most deprived parts of the UK which have low levels of aspiration, motivation and self-confidence and higher than average unemployment level (6.5 per cent).

The city was awarded Â20m from its successful Local Enterprise Growth Initiative (LEGI) bid to accelerate levels of enterprise across five areas of the city where residents were three times less likely than the UK average to start up a business.

Camberwell won a competitive tender to deliver projects in three of those areas: Beeston, Seacroft and Harehills.

Implementation
Working closely with the newly-established development trust Tiger 11, Camberwell was fully involved in the entire process including designing the initial concept, drawing up a sustainable and comprehensive business plan, securing finance as well as designing and implementing systems and processes.

In addition, the team provided extensive consultancy services on the redevelopment, design and build of the former Hillside Primary School in Beeston to provide high-quality, flexible pay-as-you-go business accommodation alongside conferencing, restaurant and community facilities.


Benefits
Hillside has been developed to deliver sustainable long-term enterprise stimulation within Beeston, develop inter-trading among local businesses, support entrepreneurs and people with ideas to start a business and create powerful role models of success.


Across the three Leeds areas the targets for delivery are:

  • 81 new businesses created in target areas by 31st March 2010.
  • 60 existing businesses in target areas supported to survive and grow by 31st March 2010.
  • 89 jobs created in target areas by 31st March 2010.
  • 56 individuals from target areas moved into employment or self-employment by 31st March 2010.

 

Where can I found out more?

www.my-catalyst.co.uk