Start-up business hub under construction

Plans for a commercial hub at Preston Barracks

Developers of the Preston Barracks site U+I announced today (May 29) that it has appointed GRAHAM Construction to deliver the new 50,000 square-foot building in Moulsecoomb.

As well as providing 'much-needed flexible office space', the building will also include events spaces and a landscaped roof garden. It is expected to complete by the end of 2019.

The move marks the first phase of works on the Â£200 million project, which will also include 369 homes, 534 student beds, shops, cafes and workshops.

Sarah Chitty, development manager at U+I, said: “We are excited to be underway with the construction of Preston Barracks, delivering a project that will breathe new life into a derelict site, and will support the economy, academic life and growth of Brighton.

"We’re proud to be working with GRAHAM on the first phase of the project. Their commitment to supporting local communities and economies is closely aligned to our own vision to create long lasting benefits for the places in which we work.

"This building will provide much-needed flexible office space for growing businesses and start-ups that will ultimately boost the business economy of the city.”

Rob Joyce, development director at GRAHAM Construction, said: “Our main objective is to create a high-quality commercial building that will attract enterprising, high-growth companies to the area.

"We will work closely with U+I and the project team to ensure that it provides a range of functioning spaces that are tailored to the needs of the individuals using it, while fostering entrepreneurship and excellence in innovation.”

The wider masterplan for the site will provide further student accommodation and academic facilities for the University of Brighton, and it is estimated the whole masterplan will deliver over 1,500 new jobs and bring Â£281 million into Brighton and Hove’s economy over the next ten years.