Business

New business support 'work cube' opens in Ballyclare

L-R: Dr Norman Apsley, LEDCOM; Michael McDonnell, Choice Housing Ireland; Cllr Billy Webb, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey; and Ken Nelson, LEDCOM.
L-R: Dr Norman Apsley, LEDCOM; Michael McDonnell, Choice Housing Ireland; Cllr Billy Webb, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey; and Ken Nelson, LEDCOM. L-R: Dr Norman Apsley, LEDCOM; Michael McDonnell, Choice Housing Ireland; Cllr Billy Webb, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey; and Ken Nelson, LEDCOM.

BUSINESS support social enterprise LEDCOM has launched a new work cube in Ballyclare town centre in partnership with Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council and Choice Housing Ireland.

Part of longer term plans to support entrepreneurship in the area, the work cube offers a range of business services including advice, business plans, managed workspace and conference facilities.

LEDCOM’s chief executive, Ken Nelson, said the Covid-19 pandemic had forced businesses to reassess their operations and needs.

“Many are looking for opportunities to escape the city centre and what can sometimes be prohibitive rental rates,” he said.

“Over the last few years we have also seen an increase in ‘hot-desking’ whereby a business owner will utilise a space as and when they require it and the new work cube is perfect for that.

“It’s our hope that the work cube will provide the ideal space for those who are just starting out on their business journey or even a business which has had to restructure as a result of the pandemic. “We want this to be a space for everyone, regardless of business need.”

Welcoming the opening of the new work cube, Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Billy Webb said it was a “fantastic asset” to Ballyclare.

“I’m delighted that LEDCOM is now the business and enterprise centre for Ballyclare. The impact that they’ve had on business in Co Antrim over these last decades is testament to their knowledge, expertise and drive to help others in business.”

Michael McDonnell, group chief executive of Choice Housing Ireland, added: “At Choice, our work is focused on creating sustainable and thriving neighbourhoods.

“We are excited to welcome budding entrepreneurs and businesses to the work cube at The Square, Ballyclare.

“Building strong and resilient communities is just as important to Choice as providing high quality homes,” he said.

“That’s why, across Northern Ireland, we are supporting individuals and businesses to enhance their environments, skills and prospects for long-term prosperity.”