Home   Dover   News   Article

Dover Co-op building to become business start-up hub

A former Co-op store is set to be converted into start-up units for new businesses.

The plans to create an innovation warehouse in the building at Stembrook have been announced by Dover District Council (DDC) and regeneration organisation Dover Big Local.

Incubator spaces will give fledgling firms a chance to get established and the council says they could provide a "stepping stone" to moving into a permanent premises in the town centre.

The former Co-operative store at Stembrook, photographed last September. (2697581)
The former Co-operative store at Stembrook, photographed last September. (2697581)

The spaces will be available to rent from Dover Big Local for up to 12 months,

DDC bought the former Co-op in April and, subject to negotiating leasing arrangements with Dover Big Local, will agree a programme of works to carry out the conversions.

The council hopes that the building's proximity to the £53 million St James’ retail park will provide a link to Dover's old town and boost footfall between the two locations.

“This revitalised building will enable small businesses to try out their ideas and gives them a transition point from being a home-based operation to having a full presence on our high street. It underpins the council’s strategy to help build a thriving and attractive town centre." said council leader Cllr Keith Morris.

Cllr Keith Morris (2697658)
Cllr Keith Morris (2697658)

He added: “This represents a vital step forward in our ongoing investment to rejuvenate the centre of Dover. The building is ideally placed between the St James' retail park and the old town area for small businesses to benefit.

“It is a bold and imaginative scheme which will further enhance the shopping experience for Dover’s residents and visitors. We want to attract a good variety of independent businesses to enrich the town’s retail offer.”

Ross Miller, chairman of Dover Big Local, said: “The overall objective, of both Dover Big Local and DDC, for the innovation warehouse is to deliver a wide range of support and facilities aimed at helping people into paid work, whether that is employment, self-employment or through setting up their own business.

“There is strong evidence that businesses that start in incubator spaces have a significantly greater chance of long term success. We aim to further reduce the risks that starter businesses face through providing expert support, mentoring and access to training to help them develop and grow.

“We are particularly looking to promote social entrepreneurship in order to make a long lasting positive impact for our community and address many of the issues we are facing today and in the future.”

The short-term proposal for the former Co-op building will be considered by DDC’s Cabinet at its meeting on 2 July.

Close This site uses cookies. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies.Learn More