In a move to become the UK’s leading place for green businesses, Hertfordshire IQ aims to boost environmental technology, agri-tech and modern construction companies
Offsite manufacturers are being invited to set up a base in Hertfordshire IQ, an Enterprise Zone 30 minutes from London.
Based in Hemel Hempstead, with 3 million sq ft of development planned over the next 10 years, Hertfordshire IQ will provide sustainable, flexible workspaces, tax breaks and collaboration opportunities with industry experts to create a UK hub of green companies.
Businesses will be able to commercialise research or boost product development working with Hertfordshire IQ’s partners: BRE Group, Rothamsted Research, and the University of Hertfordshire.
Jake Berry, minister for the Northern Powerhouse and Local Growth said: “Since their creation, Enterprise Zones have been the foundations of success for over 1,100 businesses, attracting £4.28bn of private sector investment and creating over 51,000 jobs – proving the UK is a great place to do business.
“Hertfordshire IQ aims to become the leading place in the UK for businesses operating in modern construction, agri-tech and related digital and environmental technologies and the £680,000 investment from the Local Growth Fund has opened the door for up to 800 new businesses, creating over 8,000 new jobs”
“Hertfordshire IQ will also form the commercial heart of the Hemel Garden Communities development at Hemel Hempstead, creating around 10,000 high quality new homes in a wonderful setting.”
Mark Bretton, chair of Hertfordshire Local Enterprise Partnership said: “We’re encouraging a cluster of modern construction and agri-tech companies to locate here, shining a light on the world leading expertise we have in Hertfordshire.”
Bretton added: “Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We’re thinking about what we might need in the future – for transport, workplaces, blue and green infrastructure – and most importantly people and the local community.”
“We’re working with landowners like The Crown Estate and our Local Authority partners to create a desirable, sustainable and in-demand business hub that thrives for generations to come.”
Enabled by its Enterprise Zone status, Hertfordshire IQ will also boost investment in local travel, transport and digital connectivity for the area.
New business parks will be built using sustainable materials and methods. A dedicated network of footpaths and cycle routes will also help residents ditch the car for a greener, healthier journey to work.
Hertfordshire IQ is already home to sustainable logistics business park owners Prologis and companies working in the supply chain for the construction industry.
