A new business and innovation centre in Stanmore will provide offices for up to 55 small companies.

The Stanmore Business and Innovation Centre, in Stanmore Place, Honeypot Lane, has already been occupied by five companies.

The first part of the centre has been completed but there are still two stages to be built.

When it is finished, the building, which is owned by the Berkeley Group and insurance company Prudential through St Edward their joint venture company, will have 52,000 sq ft of office space.

John Boydell, commercial development manager at St Edward, said: “The opening of the Stanmore Business and Innovation Centre reflects Berkeley’s and Prudential’s commitment to support the growth of local businesses as the key to the sustainable growth of our local economy.”

Harrow Borough Council’s portfolio holder for regeneration and planning, Councillor Keith Ferry, said: “The council is excited by the launch of this dynamic and innovative project and I am delighted that start-up companies will get the crucial support needed during the early stages of setting up their businesses so they can grow and become a success.

“Attracting new businesses and encouraging investment into the borough is at the heart of everything that we do. This is a real opportunity to support and develop talented individuals and create successful businesses of the future.”