SPACE EXPLORATION
We explore Cambridgeshire’s top business spaces, from co-working hubs and start-up incubators to conference venues and meeting rooms
THE OFFICERS’ MESS
If you’re in the market for a unique, history-steeped workspace, the Officers’ Mess could be ideal. A Grade II building located at the Duxford Airfield, this building began life as the dwelling of RAF officers including Douglas Bader, the World War II spitfire ace with a reputation as one the Royal Air Force's most skilled pilots. Last used by the military in the sixties, the building was given a £2 million refashioning in 2016, transforming it into a unique business centre with a range of sleek offices and meeting spaces. A blend of historic and modern, the refurbishment retained many original features, giving nods to the building’s fascinating past while also creating a bright and contemporary business hub boasting top facilities. The heart of the building is a light-filled atrium perfect for some blue-sky thinking, while other spaces include the former officers’ quarters, or The Stores, allowing you to soak up some impressive history while you work. Operated by Mantle, which runs a range of business centres in the region, the Officers’ Mess has a variety of options available, from private or virtual offices to co-working desk space and meeting room hire. Whichever you choose, you’ll be able
to take advantage of not only a handy location (under half an hour’s drive from Cambridge city centre and less than a minute from Junction 10 of the M11), but also appealing features including a relaxed cafe, enclosed courtyard, ample parking and on-site staff. One of the centre’s big draws is its affordability – a crucial consideration for cash-strapped start-ups and small businesses – and the centre prides itself on its clear pricing plan and value- for-money offering. There are options for companies at all stages: grab your laptop and use the co-working space for £10 a day, or if you’re looking for a virtual address before your company has a permanent home – ideal for giving fledgling companies credibility and a feel of professionalism – that can be yours for £45 per month, with call answering for £75 per month. When you’re ready, you can take on a small
office space with a minimum contract of three months, allowing you to level up without taking on a huge financial commitment. Another bonus is the connections you can make at the Officers’ Mess, which hosts bimonthly networking events that give tenants the opportunity to meet other businesses from Mantle’s various centres. If you like the sound of all this but need a more central venue, Mantle also runs CB1 Business Centre on Station Road, which offers serviced offices, co- working, dedicated desks, virtual offices and meeting rooms. Find out more at mantlebusinesscentres.co.uk
IMAGES The Officers’ Mess boasts a historic character while offering sleek, light-filled spaces and top facilities
The building was given a £2 million refashioning in 2016, transforming it into a unique business centre with sleek offices"
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