Architects Franklin Ellis and builders G F Tomlinson have created a striking, flexible work space enabling both new ventures and rapidly expanding companies to network and innovate. The flagship 3,000 sq m facility has attracted 35 high-tech companies from across the UK, contributing to a 28% increase in tenancies on the University’s Science and Enterprise Park (LUSEP).

LUSEP’s thriving community of almost 60 businesses, employing 2,000 people, enjoy an outstanding working environment on the University campus, alongside access to its world-class research base and skilled graduate supply. Amongst the ATIC companies to benefit are drug delivery developers Nemaura Pharma, and manufacturing supply chain specialists Segura Systems, both of which have grown exponentially since joining ATIC, attracting major investment and awards in recognition of their globally important work.

Steve Metcalf, Nemaura’s Director of Operations, said: “High-tech life-science companies such as Nemaura represent a key element in this country’s economic future. To realise their potential requires good ideas and good management, but can also be greatly helped by a positive environment for growth. As a location, ATIC ticks all the boxes, and offers companies such as ours the best possible chance of successfully developing and growing our cutting-edge technologies.”

Peter Needle, Segura’s CEO and Co-Founder, said: “With many businesses in ATIC at a similar stage to us, the networking with other CEOs has been really useful. Access to the University’s talent pool makes it easy to recruit graduates with the skills we need and engaging with the research base has opened up invaluable new markets for us.”

Professor Tracy Bhamra, the University’s Pro-Vice Chancellor for Enterprise, said: “Such high levels of demand for ATIC underpin the long-term development of LUSEP, as part of proposals for an exciting new Enterprise Zone for Leicestershire.”

Andy Sewards, managing director for G F Tomlinson said: “We’re proud to have delivered this innovation centre that supports economic growth in the Midlands and provides much-needed facilities for ambitious and rapidly-growing businesses.”

With the support of Charnwood Borough Council, Leicestershire County Council and the Leicester and Leicestershire Enterprise Partnership, LUSEP is undergoing a 35 hectare expansion to create a further 100,000 sq m floor space. The current development phase includes seven hectares of fully serviced plots, which are immediately available for exciting new design and build projects.