A NEW serviced office centre has proved to be success in drawing in new businesses to Basingstoke.

Arena Business Centres opened its Lime Tree Gate premises on Hampshire International Business Park, in Chineham, after a major refurbishment in February.

The building, in Crockford Lane, provides business accommodation totalling 22,000 sq ft.

Marketing director Helen Deverill said: “We have eleven companies based here that range from large corporate clients to SME’s and entrepreneurs, all forming the backbone of our economy.

“We’ve created a vibrant business community here at the centre and in the last few weeks we’ve seen four new clients join the centre.

“This is really positive for the local economy, encouraging economic development in the area.

Among the new tenants is automotive security firm JC&C Bowers Holdings.

The move marks an exciting time for the company who provide a range of crime prevention devices to the global automotive manufacturer marketplace.

Managing director John Bowers said: “Our offices at Lime Tree Gate prove to be an excellent location within Basingstoke. The modern offices, professional team and in-house services, offer an excellent working environment.”

One of the company’s products is called SHEILD, which Mr Bowers describes as the first “visual theft-prevention” solution of its kind.

Mr Bowers said the premise is simple, “if you cannot see, you cannot operate the vehicle.”

He said SHIELD encompasses the latest in automotive glass, which can switch from being transparent to impervious.

Mr Bowers said: “Our work on this highly innovative product provides a fool proof solution to automotive crime.”

“Our in-house team of industry experts means we are now in a position to change the game.”

Another business that has taken up office space at Lime Tree Gate is project managers and quantity surveyors, SG Consulting.

The company has based its projects office at the centre.

Commenting on the new office, company secretary Nicky Allcock, said: “As a company we are a growing team and it was a hugely important office move.

“This is an excellent environment for our project teams to deliver their absolute professionalism. The centre gives us the ability to meet with clients and ultimately allow us to fully focus on the business, in the knowledge everything else is taken care of.

“We’re thrilled with our decision in choosing Arena.”

Lime Tree Gate is also home to financial adviser firm, Matthew J Wise, who have taken a suite of offices for their financial advisers, specialising in providing wealth management advice across the South.

Managing director Matthew Wise, said: “After a long search, the team at Arena have ensured we moved in with minimum stress, received a really warm welcome and could start working straight away.

“Most importantly for me, my team have a really great environment to work from, with the small things that help them have an enjoyable day at work.”