Pioneering a new future for workers
Nov 7 2006 Sarah Judd, Evening Gazette
Pioneering businesses are gearing up to move into new state-of-the-art office accommodation in Darlington.
The futuristic commercial development Pioneer Court has been completed at the Morton Palms Business Park, Yarm Road, and is now ready for its first occupants.
This marks the completion of the second phase of the 28-acre site.
Expanding company Infoserve, which floated on the Alternative Investment Market in June, is relocating all 125 employees at its Stockton offices to Pioneer Court.
The firm, which helps small and medium sized businesses promote themselves online, is taking all three floors in Pioneer House, the biggest unit in Pioneer Court.
Debra Thornton, general telesales manager at Infoserve, said: "With more jobs planned we needed to find modern offices that could accommodate our ambitious growth plans in a good, easily accessible location. Pioneer House fits the bill perfectly."
City & Northern, the developers behind the scheme, are organising an open event for next month, to allow potential tenants to view the premises.
Following a growing trend among developers to create 'green' offices, the 13 self-contained units, have been built with energy efficiency in mind.
Elliot Ward, managing director of City & Northern said: "It is becoming more cost-effective for companies to base their staff in an energy-efficient environment, particularly in light of rising utility costs."
The energy efficient features include raised floors, suspended ceilings and controlled lighting.
Prospective new tenants will have the chance to see the units at a lunchtime open event to be held on November 16 between noon and 2pm.
On the same day, Darlington MP Alan Milburn will he there to officially open the development. Mr Milburn and developers City & Northern will be joined by dignitaries from across the region for the ceremony, which will take place at 12.30pm.
Mr Ward said: "This is a great opportunity for people to come and have a look around and find out more about the attractive opportunities available to businesses here.
"As well as the cost benefits, staff can also enjoy the luxury of working in a healthy environment."
City & Northern invested £10m in the first phase of Morton Palms and have spent £9m on Pioneer Court.
Offices are currently available through Sanderson Weatherall and King Sturge letting agents.
The commercial park is adjacent to the A66 in Darlington, with easy access to the A19 and A1, and close to transport links Durham Tees Valley Airport and the main East coast railway line.
