A NEW £1.5 million development which will offer vital accommodation for start-up and expanding businesses in Bury has officially opened its doors.

And Bury's Woman of the Year, Carol Godby, whose theatre workshop has produced some of today's youngest TV stars, heard how Businesslodge is playing an important role in the town.

Carol officially opened Businesslodge whose "walk in, sit down and start business" concept has already attracted widespread interest.

More than 60 guests, including dignitaries and representatives drawn from Bury's business community, attended the official opening ceremony.

Businesslodge, located at Europa House in Barcroft Street, comprises 25,000 sq ft of fully accessible and facilities-packed space which can ultimately accommodate up to 200 people.

The complex offers fully furnished and equipped office or workspace, a staffed reception, security together with conferencing facilities, 24-hour access and car parking.

Joint centre manager Mrs Deborah Kirby said: "Since we opened Businesslodge in December, there's been a lot of interest from both small businessmen and women currently working from home and people in leased accommodation looking for new premises."

The complex has also generated enquiries from prospective clients outside the Bury area.

At the official opening, Businesslodge director Gordon Asquith addressed the guests and welcomed the visitors.