Bids are being invited to build a brand new enterprise centre in Chipping Norton.

Companies interested in running the development are being offered a £240,000 carrot to carry out their plans thanks to a grant from the South East England Development Agency and Oxfordshire County Council.

The centre will provide space for both start-up and established small businesses with the aim of stimulating economic and employment growth in and around Chipping Norton.

William Barton, business development officer at West Oxfordshire District Council, said: “Interested parties are being asked to submit their bids based on where they would put the centre, how many offices/desks they would provide and what services they would offer to the wider community.

“The centre will provide somewhere for businesses to grow and keep people working in the town and help the local economy.”

The aim is to redevelop an exising property or build an entirely new one but the stipulation must be that it is within walking distance of the town centre.

A feasibility study was carried out in 2006 and a demand was identified for the facility.

And council bosses say that although unemployment is low despite 100 job losses in 2003 with the closure of the Parker Knoll factory, many people now travel outside the town to work.

Mr Barton added: “We want to ensure Chipping Norton retains a good business base so people don’t have to travel.”

It is likely the centre will include both offices and open plan areas, available on very flexible terms ranging from monthly licenses to hourly rates. It will also deliver “virtual” business services including a professional reception service for people not physically based in the centre.

West Oxfordshire District Council is managing the tendering process as a member of the Chipping Norton Town Partnership.

Partnership chairman Simon Duffy said: "We have been working towards the development of an enterprise centre for a long time. Having a place like this in Chipping Norton would be a fantastic asset for the town."

Further information and tender documents are available by calling 01993 861482 or see the website www.westoxon.gov.uk/business. The closing date for receipt of tenders is Friday <<Dec 19>> at 12pm.