Mansfield Innovation Centre sees increased demand for office space as lockdown comes to an end

Four new customers joined the centre’s thriving business community during the latest lockdown – and it has continued to receive a high level of enquiries.

Now with the first phase of easing restrictions planned for April 12, when major parts of the economy will be allowed to reopen, businesses are keen to return to the office environment.

Like many other workplaces across Mansfield and beyond, the centre has adapted its working practices and implemented safety measures due to Covid-19.

However, it is still experiencing strong demand from local businesses for physical office space and is bucking the trend when compared to other areas.

As lockdown starts to ease, the centre is anticipating a further increase in demand with businesses wanting to return to physical work spaces.

The centre, which is located on the town’s Oakham Business Park, remained available to key workers only during the first national lockdown before reopening in July 2020.

Home to more than 30 local growing businesses, Mansfield Innovation Centre provides fully serviced offices and workshops – a virtual office facility, hot desk area, meeting and conference rooms.

Businesses can also access dedicated on-site business support from Innovation director David Smith, to help them respond and adapt to the changing economic environment.

Centre manager Hannah Hickman said: “Businesses are evolving to meet the demands of the times we are in, and new working practices such as remote and flexible working are becoming more commonplace as the situation continues to unfold.

“However, many of our customers are keen to return to their offices as the latest lockdown starts to wind down, finding they are more productive when working as a team, and they miss the day-to-day collaboration with colleagues and other businesses.

“With the appropriate measures in place to protect our customers, staff and visitors, we were able to remain open throughout the second national lockdown and continued to support our business community throughout the latest one.”

For further information on Mansfield Innovation Centre, please visit www.mansfield-ic.co.uk or call 01623 600600.

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