Developer Luxor Group has unveiled plans to create new space for startups with its latest acquisition.
The Liverpool-based company is calling for independent firms to sign up for space at Luxor Plaza, a new business hub it is creating at Barrow House in St Helens.
Sitting on the corner of Claughton Street and Barrow Street, the scheme will aim to use its prominent location and flexible tenancies to help prospective entrepreneurs get their ventures of the ground.
Measures to support businesses at Luxor Plaza will include £0 deposit for securing space, access to shop fitters and signage makers, marketing assistance and rent-free periods during the lease term.
Barrow House currently comprises a ground-floor parade of three glass double-fronted retail units, a café linked to a shopping arcade and 10,000 sq ft of basement leisure space.
Luxor is working with the council on potential future uses for the building’s upper floors.
Paul Nicholson, managing director of Luxor Group, said: “The acquisition of Barrow House is a great addition to our portfolio in St Helens and our wider commercial property holdings across the Liverpool City Region.
“We understand how difficult it can be in the initial stages of setting up a business. We want to offer incentives for aspiring retailers to help them find their feet and get their business running smoothly.”
He added: “Luxor Plaza will be an exciting, vibrant new community where small businesses can thrive. We want to hear from new businesses or existing small businesses who are looking to expand to be a part of Luxor Plaza.”
Luxor Group is working on two other projects in St Helens – the £1m conversion of the former Tyrers department store into a mixed-use scheme and the conversion of Claughton House into 18 residential units