- www.leevalleyestates.co.uk This is the lastest list of news from our website. en-uk http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=40 The RSA Trust is delighted with the success of its latest initiative.  With the £70,000 funding they were given by the charity, Enterprise Enfield was able to develop and deliver the 'Inspiring Women Programme' - a scheme specifically designed to holistically support the development of women to start their own businesses or return to the workplace.  So far this has enables 8 women to start their own businesses and a further 6 women are in the process of setting up.  Plus 1 woman has returned to work.The criteria for women to join the programme includeed showing enthusiasm and commitment and either living in or wishing to start a business in the North London borough of Enfield.On 10th July all the beneficiaries of the scheme attended a celebratory lunch at the West Lodge Park Hotel in Hadley Wood, to mark their successful completion of the 6 month programme.  They were presented with certificates by the chairman of the Trust, Gary Walker who remarked:-"When we had the idea for this programme we were determined to make a difference and help a group of women achieve their entrepreneurial goal.  Meeting them today at this event has demonstrated that Enterprise Enfield has delivered an outstanding programme and the women have more than exceeded our hopes and expectations"The atmosphere at the event was one of renewal and confidence and the attendees spoke of the positive change in their lives which had happened throughout this year.  Tara Grant, who recently started her own business services venture, gave a moving speech thanking the RSA and Enterprise Enfield for empowering her to take her life forwars:-"I couldn't have stood up at this lunch today if it hadn't been for the confidence this programme has given me.  All the sessions have been valuable but the network of support that has been created is a real bonus for this programme"The 20 who joined the 'Inspiring Women Programme' became part of an innovative 6 month course which gave them all the technical training and personal skills needed to develop a business idea and put it into practice.  Considerable research was conducted by Enterprise Enfield before the programme began.  The Programme Manager, Ann-Marie Sheridan, visited other schemes around England to learn from their experience.  She was told that women - focused programmes that have been funded from Europe were usually highly contrained in how they run the programmes.  They were restricted by targets and form - filing.  It was through that the freedom was allowed by RSA to tailor the programme to the specific needs of the women involved was a great benefit of the RSA scheme, as it allowed for a flexiable and holistic approach to each of the women's development.Two weekends away at country retreats were part of the programme.  The RSA provided funding to assist any childcare costs so that all the women were free to take time out from their lives to attend.  At one of the residential weekends delegates were treated to a presentation on communication skills and a Colour Me Beautiful specialist also gave them tips on enhancing their personal image.The RSA Trust and Enterprise Enfield are continuing to provide financial and mentoring support to the women who have now completed the Programme.  The RSA Trust has ALSO allocated grants to some of the women to help with various start-up costs, such as the purchase of computers, stock, printing and website development.  For example couturier Cheryl Calliste, has been able to occupy two new studio premises and buy machinery for her recently hired assistant to use.  Similarly, Paula Martin was able to take accounting exams to add status to her bookkeeping business and is also receiving funding to purchase a laptop and accessories.Thanks to the RSA's additional funding to Enterprise Enfield 13 women will now be receiving a further 6 months mentoring to continue the growth of thir new businesses and ensure their success.EndsFor further information, please contact Sue King at Enterprise Enfield on 020 8443 545 and SKing@enterpriseenfield.orgLaura Cruickshank at Lee Valley Estates on 020 8885 8530 and laura@lee-valley-estates.co.uk Notes for Editors:About RSA TrustRSA Trust is a charity funded by donations from RSA Island Village Limited.  It is based at the old Royal Small Arms Factory site in Enfield.  This company was formed in February 2004Nearly one million pounds has been distributed to over forty good causes.  These are mainly but not exclusively in the Enfield area of North LondonThe RSA Trust is run by a board of trustees.  They compromise of voluntary members of the business communityThey look for causes that have an impact on the local community for instance in the areas of:Creating new businesSupporting business and community businessProviding employmentImproving the RSA Island Centre environmentMotivating youthWebsite www.rsatrust.orgEnterprise EnfieldEnterprise Enfield is an independent, not for profit, business advisory and training organisation dedicated to helping people start, establish and succeed in business.  Services include:Business seminars covering key areas: Business Planning, Marketing, Finance etcExpert advice and guidanceAn ebusiness networkLow cost business premisesProfessional advisers offer specialist help in:Business PlanningRaising FinanceBoosting Sales and MarketingOrganising AccountsBusiness Imporvement and Staff DevelopmentThe agency has been awarded the Customer First and Matrix standards for quality business support and is an Investor in People.  It is also the first London enterprise agency to have received the Prowess Flagship Award for best practice in women's enterprise development and has recently achieved The Green Mark Award. Website: www.EnterpriseEnfield.org   http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=39 The former Leyton Municipal Offices have been officially recognised for their contribution to the regeneration of the local economy.  On 3rd July the successfully redeveloped building scooped the Special Award for owner Lee Valley Estates at the Leyton Town centre Awards ceremony.Also known as the LMO, a £10 million investment programme has ensured the building has many uses.  The fully let Legacy Business Centre, run by Hiltongrove Business Space provides high quality offices to local businesses.  This has created space for over 80 jobs.Affordable housing will be fitted into the LMO scheme  in the form of 2 and 3 bedroom homes.  The magnificent great hall, beautifully restored in its original colour scheme, will be available for local people to hire.  Upon reopening it will allow bookings of over 500 people for weddings, concerts and plays.  A new modern Indian restaurant and juice bar will open after winning a local 'Dragon's Den' style competition to find the right tenant.Michael Polledri, Chairman of Lee Valley Estates said "We are truly delighted by this honour.  We have made long term commitments to the economic revival of our area.  Our desire is to provide first class offices, homes and facilities which everyone can benefit from".HBOS sponsored the event and the bank's own Councillor Johar Khan was on hand to give out the awards.  It was organised by Leytonstone Business Forum's One Stop Shop's dynamic Fawaad Shaikh.  Hosts, the Leyton Enterprise Forum created this particular prize to distinguish a business "judged to have made the greatest contribution to the local area or community over the past year".The Leyton Enterprise Forum was set up three years ago by joint chairs Eldridge Cooke and Umar Dadd.  It sits under the Waltham Forest Business Board structure.  The LEF's vision is to increase membership, attract inward investment and position Leyton Town Centre to take advantage of opportunities from the Olympics and Stratford.EndsFor further information, contact Laura Cruickshank on 020 8885 8530 or at laura@lee-valley-estates.co.uk Notes for Editors:Lee Valley Estates, in association with Hiltongrove Business Space, acquired the former Leyton Municipal Office site, a Grade II listed building, in a £5 million transaction in November 2006.The premises are at the heart of a new development on the site of these former council offices on Leyton High Road, E10.  Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from the development.The whole scheme, entailing investment in the region of £10 million, creates a substantial mixed-use development, providing new residential, leisure and business space, and will be a major driver in the regeneration of Leyton.  Before any formal marketing was carried out 25 of the 28 units were let.  It is now consistently 100% let.  Over 80 people are now employed at the Legacy E10 Business Centre.It will form part of the permanent legacy of the 2012 Olympics, which will regenerate the wider area of East London, providing new homes, facilites and employment.  Lee Valley Estates is leading the development of the site.In line with the Mayor's London Plan, the development will make use of the existing transport capacity, with excellent tube, bus and road transport links.  The Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from Leyton Municipal Offices. About Lee Valley EstatesLee Valley Estates has been established since 1987 to support economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe have strong local roots and local commitment and we are based in the area in which we investWe currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspacePrimarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousands of SMEs to prosper and growLondon's changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed-use schemes, to serve the needs of communitiesReflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed-use development schemes, providing homes and community facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interests focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridorAbout Hiltongrove Business SpaceHiltongrove Business Space is a group of companies established in 1994 offering managed workspace in the North East London areaOur flagship business centre in Walthamstow E17 has helped create over 120 new jobs in the last five years and has played a significant part in the regeneration of the surrounding area        http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=38 Clockworks, the new development at 656 Forest Road has resisted the credit crunch.  Recently completed workspace has proven highly attractive to locally based employers.  Lee Valley Estates, the leading developer in Waltham Forest, has regenerated an old factory into 9 separate units.Despite only going to market this past month, three quaters of the four light industrial units and 5 studios are let or under offer.  This shows the resilience of our borough's economy.The interesting mix of tenants is headed by Bouygues, an international construction company with offices worldwide.  They decided to make three studios at Clockworks into their new administrative headquarters.  Then they moved within just two weeks. Bouygues are the preferred construction partner for The London Borough of Waltham Forest.  They built the new school on the opposite side of Forest Road.  This was part of the local authority's 'Building Schools for the Future' (BSF) long term project.  Bouygues' tenancy at Clockworks fits in with Lee Valley Estates' commitment to inward investment in Waltham Forest.The chocolatier Perfectly Tempered is already a Lee Valley Estates tenant.  Now they are switching their base from Roxwell Business Park to larger premises at Clockworks.  Entrepreneur and owner Ms Kirsty Joly said "Lee Valley Estates have always been a very supportive landlord to my company.  I am very excited about my new premises and cannot wait to settle in.  My business will benefit from the well designed space and great location".When Clockworks is fully let the new tenants will employ more people than those who previously used the building.  Former occupiers, a firm of clockmakers, have moved their operations to smaller premises.Planning permission was granted in October 2007 by Waltham Forest Council Planning Committee.  Lee Valley Estates is working in a public private partnership with the YMCA.  Together they will develop another part of Clockworks into accomodation.  This will be the next step of the development.  The whole building is due for completion in May 2009.Lee Valley Estates have agreed a firm commitment from Forest YMCA for a long lease.  The employment use of the building has the potential to provide training and jobs for the young residents.  Michael Polledri, Chairman of Lee Valley Estates says this will provide an exciting "synergy between small businesses and the YMCA.  We hope to create employment opportunities on site for training initiatives, in partnership with local authorities". Ends For further information, please contact Laura Cruickshanh on 020 8885 8530, or laura@lee-valley-estates.co.uk Notes for Editors: About Lee Valley EstatesLee Valley Estates is a group of companies established since 1987 to support economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe are a group with strong local roots and local commitment and we are based in the area in which we investWe currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspacePrimarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousands of SMEs to prosper and growLondon's changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed - use schemes, to serve the needs of communitiesReflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed - use development schemes, providing homes and community facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interest focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridorOur website address is www.leevalleyestates.co.ukAbout Forest YMCAForest YMCA was established in 1970The focus of the organisation over the past 37 years has been creating opportunities for young people to fulfil their potential in body, mind and spiritThe ages of the young people we work with are from 5 - 30 with our primary focus on those between the ages of 14 - 19Forest YMCA works principally (but not exclusively) with those young people who currently reside in our accommodation.  Our aims are to:Provide direct access accommodation for homeless people within our local catchment area, for a period of upto 12 monthsProvide a 'move-on' resettlement service to residents within our HostelProvide a welcome to members for themselves in a meeting place which is theirs to share where friendships can be made and counsel soughtDevelop activities which stimulate and challenge our members in an environment that enables them to take resposibility and find a sense of achievementInvolve all members in care and work for othersCreate opportunities for exchanging views so that our members can improve their understanding of the world, of themselves and of one another http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=35 Leading architecture and masterplanning practice, Hamiltons, has designed a dynamic tower with the form reminiscent of a butterfly to grace the western entrance to Hale Village.Local residents and interested parties are invited to view the plans at a consultation event on June 16th at The Lock Restaurant and Dining Bar from 11am to 8pm.  A full planning application will be submitted in late June to Haringey Council.  This will be followed by a 13-week determination to consider the plans.The Tower will be set in a sustainable environment - Hale Village features many eco - technology systems, including rainwater harvesting and its own combined heat and power plant.It will house 184 apartments, the majority of which will be dual aspect and all will have balconies.  Residents will enjoy the use of a residential roof garden.  There will be opportunities for al fresco dining throughout much of the year, in a restaurant located at the foot of the tower."Our architects, Hamiltons, were recently ranked fifth in the country by the Architect's Journal AJ100 list.  Hamiltons were selected to design the tower by a broad panel which included local representatives, interest groups and pan-London authorities," said Michael Polledri, chairman of Lee Valley Estates.  "Both the Greater Lpndon Authority (GLA) and the Commission for Architecture and the Built Environment (CABE) have argued the case for an elegant landmark building to mark the gateway to Hale Village and we are keen to share the design with local people."The GLA reported, "The proposed tall building at the entrance to the site from the west performs an important marking the regeneration of the site and also providing orientation within the wider area.  This location is considered entirely appropriate for a tall building given its high transport accessibility and the contribution that it could make as a catalyst for the regeneration of an area .... The tower would benefit from being taller to give it a slimmer and more elegant proportions and Haringey Council is urged to take the opportunity provided by the developer of this site to provide a genuine landmark for the regeneration of the area."CABE's assessment stated, "It is not the precise height of the tower that will be of crucial importance, but the elegance of its form, how it emerges from and contributes to the surrounding public realm, and the quality of its architecture."endsFor furhter information, contact Siobhan Crozier on 07831 214 352Notes for Editors: About Lee Valley EstatesLee Valley Estates has been established since 1987 to support economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe have strong local roots and local commitment and we are based in the area in which we investWe currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspacePrimarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousand of SMEs to prosper and growLondon's changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed-use schemes, to serve the needs of communitiesReflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed-use development schemes, providing homes and community facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interests focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridor  http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=37 Passers - by in Ferry Lane can see three tall cranes in place with heavy earth - moving plant in constant action.  Work forges ahead to transform the former GLS industrial site into Hale Village, a sustainable urban community that will push forward the long - term regeneration of Tottenham Hale. http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=34 Lee Valley Estates is proud to announce that Christian Action Housing Association (CAHA) is its partner to deliver the social housing element of its innovative redevelopment of the former Leyton Municipal Offices site. CAHA will build 17 apartments at the scheme.A restaurant and coffee shop plus a juice bar and 49 new homes will complete the transformation of the former Leyton Municipal Offices. The well appointed scheme is only a short walk from Leyton underground station. Lee Valley Estates’ development preserves the handsome Grade II listed building, brings employment to the site, creates housing for local people and is a vital catalyst for the regeneration of Leyton.Old temporary sheds, which are of no architectural merit, will soon be demolished and replaced by CAHA’s new block of apartments, which will be let to people in housing need. This is the second scheme involving collaboration between Lee Valley Estates and CAHA.Both Lee Valley Estates and Christian Action Housing Association welcome the planning consent for this scheme, granted by Waltham Forest Council in March.Lee Valley Estates’ Chairman Michael Polledri said, “Finding a decent, affordable permanent home can transform the prospects of families and individuals. We are very pleased to be working once again with a registered social landlord that shares our vision for practical, affordable regeneration of the inner city, here in North East London.”CAHA’s Chief Executive Mark Hayes said “These affordable homes will be rented to people in need of permanent housing. The development will provide 12 two-bed and five three-bed homes, including family and accessible units, with excellent public transport links.”endsFor further information, contact Laura Cruickshank on 020 8885 8530Notes for Editors:Lee Valley Estates, in association with Hiltongrove Business Space, acquired the former Leyton Municipal Offices site, a Grade II listed building, in a £4 million transaction in November 2006.  Planning consent was given on 12 March 2008.The premises are at the heart of a new development on the site of these former council offices on Leyton High Road, E10. Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from the development.The whole scheme, entailing investment in the region of £10 million, creates a substantial mixed-use development, providing new residential, leisure and business space, and will be a major driver in the regeneration of Leyton. Currently, 25 of the 28 available units have been let, before any formal marketing was carried out. Seventy people are now employed at the Legacy E10 Business Centre. It will form part of the permanent legacy of the 2012 Olympics, which will regenerate the wider area of East London, providing new homes, facilities and employment. Lee Valley Estates is leading the development of the site.In line with the Mayor’s London Plan, the development will make use of the existing transport capacity, with excellent tube, bus and road transport links. The Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from Leyton Municipal Offices. About Lee Valley Estates Lee Valley Estates has been established since 1987 to support economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe have strong local roots and local commitment abd we are based in the area in which we invest We currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspacePrimarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousands of SMEs to prosper and growLondon's changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed-use schemes, to serve the needs of communitiesReflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed-use development schemes, providing homes and comunity facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interests focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridor About Christian Action Housing AssociationCAHA are a community based Housing AssociationWe are a not-for-profit charity and all our resources are invested in housing or used to provide services to our customersFounded in 1966 we quickly became a vehicle for social action, responding to the needs of local homeless peopleWe operate predominantly in Notrh East London and manage some 1,250 homes in the borough of Enfield, Barnet, Waltham Forest and Haringey http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=32 Waltham Forest Council has granted planning permission and listed building consent for a mixed-use development at the site of the former Leyton Municipal Offices.The handsome Grade II listed building on High Road, Leyton will be transformed into a stylish restaurant and 49 new homes bringing employment opportunities and housing.A 'Dragon's Den' style competition was held to find a new use for the immaculately restored Great Hall.  The winners, Horukul Islam and Salim Rahman, will operate the Hall as a community venue to hire for corporate functions and other social events.  They will also run a new restaurant, coffee shop and juice bar.Old temporary sheds, which are of no architectural merit, will be demolished and replaced by a new block of 17 apartments.A new lift will give disabled people access to the public parts of the listed building and make various floors of the adjoining public library accessible.The Planning Committee's decision is subject to the Section 106 agreement being finalised.  This will set out the developer's contribution to projects specified by the Council to benefit the local community. http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=30 What is it?  A grade II listed former council office building that's going to be transformed into 49 apartments and a restaurant thanks to a £10m investment.Community benefits:  Developer Lee Valley Estates claims the project will catalyse the area's regeneration, providing housing and attracting more investors.More to come:  Waltham Forest Council will specify how the developer will contribute to renewal in the area through a section 106 agreement.Luxurious surroundings:  The restored Great Hall in the building will be available for hire in the community for functions like weddings and corporate events.Business space:  The property already contains 28 refurbished offices, 25 of which are currently being rented.Good links:  It is next to tube and bus services as well as main roads. http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=29 A stylish restaurant and 49 homes will complete the transformation of the Grade II registered former Leyton Municipal Offices.The planning committee has given permission for the development following a competition to find a new use for the Great Hall.The winners were businessmen Horukul Islam and Salim Rahman.  The pair will operate the hall and a contemporary restaurant, coffee shop and juice bar, and the site will have disabled access.Old temporary sheds behind the main building in Leyton High Road will be demolished and replaced by a block of 17 apartments, to be built by Christian Action Housing Association (CAHA).The former technical college at the site will be converted into 32 residential properties, with penthouse apartments also planned.  Michael Polledri, chairman of developer Lee Valley Estates, said: "The restoration of this important building will make a significant contribution to the regeneration of the area." http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=28 A stylish restaurant and 49 new homes will complete the transformation of the former Leyton Municipal Offices. Lee Valley Estates’ development preserves the handsome Grade II listed building, brings employment to the site, creates housing for local people and is a vital catalyst for the regeneration of Leyton.Waltham Forest Planning Committee agreed unanimously on March 12th to grant planning permission and listed building consent for the mixed-use development at the former Leyton Municipal Offices site. The Committee’s decision is subject to the Section 106 agreement being finalised. This will set out the developer’s contribution to projects that benefit the local community, which will be specified by Waltham Forest Council.The immaculately restored Great Hall will soon be available to the community to hire for functions such as weddings, receptions, corporate functions and other social events. A ‘Dragon’s Den’ style competition was held to find a new use for the Hall. The winners, Horukul Islam and Salim Rahman, will operate the Hall and a contemporary new restaurant and coffee shop plus a juice bar. Leyton residents will have the opportunity to enjoy healthy food in elegant surroundings. A new lift will give disabled people access to the public parts of the listed building and it also makes accessible various floors of the adjoining public library. This innovative approach will save the Council a considerable cost in delivering its obligations to provide disability access. Old temporary sheds, which are of no architectural merit, will be demolished and replaced by a new block of 17 apartments, to be built by Christian Action Housing Association. The former Technical College will be converted into 32 stylish residential units, with a new barrel roof creating spaces for penthouse apartments on the top storey. Lee Valley Estates’ partner, Hiltongrove Business Space, already operates 28 beautifully renovated office suites at the development, offering local employment opportunities. Michael Polledri, Chairman of Lee Valley Estates, said, “We are delighted to have received planning consent for the next phase of this exciting development. It has been made possible because of the support and effort of our local planning authorities at Waltham Forest Council,” he said. “The restoration of this important building will make a significant contribution to the regeneration of the area and we believe that it will give confidence to other investors to come in and develop projects that will complete the regeneration of Leyton.”    CAHA’s Chief Executive, Mark Hayes, said, “Christian Action Housing Association welcomes the planning consent for this scheme, which will result in a further successful collaboration between CAHA and Lee Valley Estates. These affordable homes will be rented to people in need of permanent housing. The development will provide 12 two-bed and five three-bed homes, including family and accessible units, with excellent public transport links.” ends  For further information, contact Siobhan Crozier on 07831 214352 Notes for Editors:  Lee Valley Estates, in association with Hiltongrove Business Space, acquired the former Leyton Municipal Offices site, a Grade II listed building, in a £4 million transaction in November 2006. The premises are at the heart of a new development on the site of these former council offices on Leyton High Road, E10.  Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from the development. The whole scheme, entailing investment in the region of £10 million, creates a substantial mixed-use development, providing new residential, leisure and business space, and will be a major driver in the regeneration of Leyton.  Currently, 25 of the 28 available units have been let, before any formal marketing was carried out.  Seventy people are now employed at the Legacy E10 Business Centre. It will form part of the permanent legacy of the 2012 Olympics, which will regenerate the wider area of East London, providing new homes, facilities and employment.  Lee Valley Estates is leading the development of the site. In line with the Mayor's London Plan, the development will make use of the existing transport capacity, with excellent tube, bus and road transport links.  The Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from Leyton Municipal Offices. About Lee Valley EstatesLee Valley Estates has been established since 1987 to support economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe have strong Local roots and local commitment and we are based in the area in which we investWe currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspacePrimarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousands of SMEs to prosper and growLondon's changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed-use schemes, to serve the needs of communitiesReflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed-use development schemes, providing homes and community facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interests focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridor About Hiltongrove Business Space Hiltongrove Business Space is a group of companies established in 1994 offering managed workspace in the North East London area Our flagship business centre in Walthamstow E17 has helped create over 120 new jobs in the last five years and has played a significant part in the regeneration of the surrounding area http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=27 It is one of the biggest developments in Haringey's history and its developers say it could change the face of Tottenham.  The project in question is the £400 million Hale Village project, set on the old GLS depot site between Tottenham Hale Sation and the Lea Valley Navigation.  Curious passers-by pause to watch as builders and diggers form a hive of activity on the muddy expanse of cleared land next to Ferry Lane... http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=1 A winner has been announced in the Dragons' Den-style challenge to find the best business idea to operate the Great Hall of the former Leyton Municipal Offices. The winning entry combines a proposal for an exciting new restaurant, plus use of the Great Hall for functions such as weddings, receptions, corporate functions and other social events.The prize is the equivalent of a year’s free rent on a ten-year lease of the Great Hall. The building, which also includes the 28-unit Legacy E10 Business Centre, has recently undergone a multi-million pound refurbishment by partners, Lee Valley Estates and Hiltongrove Business Space. All works were carried in consultation with Guy Osborne, conservation officer for the London Borough of Waltham Forest (LBWF).The partners wanted to find a use for the stunning space of the Great Hall that would benefit the local community, while being a successful and commercially viable business.A ten-year search for the perfect banqueting suite led Horukul Islam and Salim Rahman to submit their last-minute entry. “We heard about the competition only a week before the first deadline,” says Horukul. With Salim, he visited the premises and they realised that in addition to finding the banqueting suite of their dreams, they could also operate a 160 to 200-seater restaurant plus a coffee shop. “We were certain about the space matching our ideas but had to get a very sound business plan together in such a short time - I didn’t see my kids for a week!”In conjunction with the Waltham Forest Guardian and a panel of local judges, local business and community organisations were invited to put forward their ideas to operate the hall.Chairman of Lee Valley Estates, Michael Polledri and Guy Davis, Chief Executive of Hiltongrove Business Space, were joined on the judging panel by Pat Stannard, Editor of the Waltham Forest Guardian, Councillor Clyde Loakes, Leader of Waltham Forest Council, Gary Ince, Chief Executive of North London Business, the area’s leading agency for economic development, and Gary Walker, Chairman of RSA Island Village Limited and Director of Lee Valley Estates.The competition was stiff. Initial interest was extremely varied – both in terms of the proposals and their attributes. Four high quality business plans were submitted in the first round and two made it through to the final, where the judges quizzed the teams about their submissions.Horukul’s background is in IT and financial sales, while Salim is the former Executive Business Development Manager of Pride of Asia, a successful catering and banqueting business. “We want to create a very contemporary and spectacular lifestyle restaurant, serving healthy Indian food with a Mediterranean mix,” explains Horukul. “We’ll find a master Indian chef to create individual dishes – probably someone who is already working in a five-star hotel now. Being so close to Leyton underground station, there are a steady flow of commuters, so a stylish coffee shop with a juice bar and healthy food should do well too,” he adds. “Competition is tough, so we’ve got to create different revenue streams, be constantly innovative and remain focused on delivering high quality food and service to meet our customers expectations. The restaurant is going to be The Venue for a great night of dining.” Guy Davis of Hiltongrove said, “We were really interested in several of the ideas put forward but Horukul and Salim clearly had the edge. They looked at the opportunities to create a business with differing income streams that will genuinely enhance the facilities for the local community.” Michael Polledri, Chairman of Lee Valley Estates, said “They worked hard to demonstrate the different ways in which they will make use of this outstanding venue for the benefit of the community, as well as developing their own business. It’s just what we were looking for: imaginative proposals which also make sound commercial sense. We’d like to congratulate Horukul and Salim and wish them every success for the future.”Clyde Loakes, Leader of the London Borough of Waltham Forest, said, "The Great Hall has been refurbished to a very high standard. It's a fantastic space and I'm delighted it will now be opened up to the local community again. I wish Horukul and Salim all the best in their new business venture."  ends  For further information, contact Siobhan Crozier on 07831 214352  AttachmentsIf you would like to use the attached photo, credit must be given to the copyright owner: Waltham Forest Guardian From L to R: Cllr Clyde Loakes, Leader of the London Borough of Waltham Forest; Horukul Islam and Salim Rahman – winners of the Great Hall competition; Guy Davis, Chief Executive of Hiltongrove Business Space; Michael Polledri, Chairman of Lee Valley Estates; all standing in the Great Hall of the former Leyton Municipal Offices. Notes for Editors Lee Valley Estates, in association with Hiltongrove Business Space, acquired the former Leyton Municipal Offices site, a Grade II listed building, in a £4 million transaction in November 2006.The premises are at the heart of a new development on the site of these former council offices on Leyton High Road, E10. Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from the development.The whole scheme, entailing investment in the region of £10 million, creates a substantial mixed-use development, providing new residential, leisure and business space, and will be a major driver in the regeneration of Leyton. Cuurently, 25 of the 28 available units have been let, before any formal marketing was carried out. Seventy people are now employed at the Legacy E10 Business Centre.It will form part of the permanent legacy of the 2012 Olympics, which will regenerate the wider area of East London, providing new homes, facilities and employment. Lee Valley Estates is leading the development of the site.In line with the Mayor’s London Plan, the development will make use of the existing transport capacity, with excellent tube, bus and road transport links. The Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from Leyton Municipal Offices.About Lee Valley EstatesLee Valley Estates has been established since 1987 to promote economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe have strong local roots and local commitment and we are based in the area in which we investWe currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspace Primarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousand of SMEs to prosper and growLondon’s changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed-use schemes, to serve the needs of communities Reflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed-use development schemes, providing homes and community facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interests focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridorAbout Hiltongrove Business Space Hiltongrove Business Space is a group of companies established in 1994 offering managed workspace in the North East London areaOur flagship business centre in Walthamstow E17 has helped create over 120 new jobs in the last five years and has played a significant part in the regeneration of the surrounding area http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=20 Young people will benefit from fifty units of foyer-style accommodation, to be developed in conjunction with nine light industrial units at a site opposite Walthamstow Town Hall. The Planning Committee of Waltham Forest Council has granted planning permission for Lee Valley Estates’ plans to refurbish the site. The fifty residential units will be created within the original warehouse building, with commercial premises on the ground and first floors of the smaller adjoining building. These foyer spaces will be managed by Forest YMCA with Christian Action Housing Association (CAHA) acting as their development agent. Both organisations are well-respected registered social landlords.The accommodation is designed to offer young clients of the neighbouring YMCA more independence than the traditional hostel environment.Eight one-bedroom, two two-bedroom and 40 studio apartments will be built. Five of these units will be designed and allocated for use by disabled tenants.Work is expected to begin at the site in January 2008. The foyer concept originated in France to give young students and workers somewhere to live before moving on to set up their own homes. Foyers began to be established in the UK in 1992 and differ from the French version in having a strong emphasis on training for employment and other forms of support for disadvantaged young people. It is designed to give young people ‘next step’ accommodation while they prepare for moving into their own homes, having their own tenancy or sharing a place with others.The four light industrial units and five studios will provide employment for mainly local people and training facilities for YMCA residents. Workspaces will range from 500 to 1,000 sq ft (46 to 93 sq m). Michael Polledri, Chairman of Lee Valley Estates, said “We are delighted to be involved in the public-private partnership between Lee Valley Estates, the YMCA and CAHA.” He added, “We will be renovating an old building to provide new workspace opportunities for small businesses in the area. The exciting foyer accommodation will provide ‘next step’ housing, which is an important stage on the route to full independence for young adults. The site will provide synergy between small businesses and the YMCA and we also hope to create employment opportunities on site for training initiatives, in partnership with local authorities.” Keith Drew, Interim Chief Executive of Forest YMCA, said “The YMCA has long experience and expertise in integrating young people in the local community. It provides us with a building close to our existing premises, giving us immediate access for managing the new development. The YMCA will be able to carefully select and monitor tenants, to ensure that they will be good neighbours to the local community.”Mark Hayes, Chief Executive of Christian Action Housing Association, said “The success of foyers in this country has benefited thousands of young people when they were setting out on the difficult route to adulthood and independence. In big cities, the pressures can make this a hazardous transition in a young person’s life. This new venture will offer a secure and safe place to live, coupled with opportunities for training and employment. This provides an ideal combination of independence with support, guiding young adults successfully on to the next stage of their lives. ”Martin Brooker, the lead designer at ‘imagining life inside the box’, responsible for the Clockworks design proposal, is committed to developing a contemporary environment with a sense of fun for the intended young user group. This will be achieved through the use of materials, detail and colour, with modern insertions that will ensure the building’s continued use in the 21st century.endsFor further information, contact Siobhan Crozier on 07831 214352Notes for EditorsAbout Lee Valley EstatesLee Valley Estates has been established since 1987 to promote economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe have strong local roots and local commitment and we are based in the area in which we investWe currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspace Primarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousand of SMEs to prosper and growLondon’s changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed-use schemes, to serve the needs of communities Reflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed-use development schemes, providing homes and community facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interests focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridorAbout Forest YMCAForest YMCA was established in 1970 The focus of the organisation over the past 37 years has been in creating opportunities for young people to fulfil their potential in body, mind and spirit The ages of the young people we work with are from 5-30 with our primary focus on those between the ages of 14-19Forest YMCA works principally (but not exclusively) with those young people who currently reside in our accommodation. Our aims are to: Provide direct access accommodation for homeless people within our local catchment area, for a period of up to 12 monthsProvide a ‘move-on’ resettlement service to residents within our HostelProvide a welcome to members for themselves in a meeting place which is theirs to share where friendships can be made and counsel soughtDevelop activities which stimulate and challenge our members in an environment that enables them to take responsibility and find a sense of achievementInvolve all members in care and work for othersCreate opportunities for exchanging views so that our members can improve their understanding of the world, of themselves and of one anotherAbout Christian Action Housing Association (CAHA) Christian Action was founded in 1966 as a local, Church based, response to the need for affordable housing for rentThis remains our core activity and we continue to build new housing and purchase older properties for renovation when the opportunity arisesToday we own or manage over 1100 dwellings, and provide a range of housing and services, in the four North London Boroughs of Enfield, Barnet, and Haringey & Waltham Forest Our purpose is to identify local needs, to respond to these with local solutions, and to provide excellent local servicesWe work in partnership with local authorities, the community, private and voluntary sectors and seek to provide high quality services that are affordable and accessible to our customers http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=23 Tottenham’s largest single development in over two decades has been given the go-ahead. A special meeting of Haringey Council’s Planning Committee gave outline planning approval last night (17 May) to the Hale Village development in Ferry Lane, Tottenham Hale, North London. The £400 million urban village will dramatically transform this landscape of industrial decay into a green village with landmark buildings of high quality design. The development consists of a 12 acre (4.9 hectare) mixed-use regeneration scheme.  Plans for Hale Village will include 1,210 residential units, 700 student bedrooms, 5,000 sq m of local retail with shops, cafés and restaurants, a 100-bed hotel, primary school, medical centre and 3,200 sq m of high quality office accommodation to be occupied by registered social landlord, Newlon Housing Trust, as their head office. Contracts have been exchanged with Unite, the UK’s largest student housing provider which will operate 700 units at Hale Village. Contracts have also been exchanged with Newlon Housing Trust to provide all of the affordable housing which will comprise around 338 units.Owner and lead developer of the former GLS site, Lee Valley Estates, is currently in discussions with a short list of leading national house-builders about the opportunity to build a further 900 residential units. Future plans will include the redevelopment of two sites adjacent to Hale Village, one a former petrol station and the other at Hale Wharf.Tottenham Hale Station with its excellent transport links is adjacent to all the sites.  With Victoria Line access to the West End and fast overground links to Liverpool Street and Stansted Airport, the waterside location will be an attractive proposition for new residents.Chairman of Lee Valley Estates, Michael Polledri, said, “Hale Village will be a catalyst for the regeneration of Tottenham Hale. This area is a hidden gem which we are proud to be associated with. It gives us genuine satisfaction that the benefits of the scheme will have a major impact on transforming this part of North London.” Planning approval for the outline scheme is an important milestone and means that preparatory work can begin at the site later this year. Detailed plans for the various buildings will be submitted over the next two years. The scheme will be developed over two phases and is likely to be completed by 2012.The development comprises four to twelve storey buildings within a framework of streets.  Taller buildings frame Hale Village along the railway line, with new apartments benefiting from unique views across the Lea Valley.  The 100-bed hotel is located in an 23-storey landmark tower, next to Tottenham Hale station.  The design features an open environment with residential pavilions sitting within park surroundings along the River Lea.  This creates green connections between the open spaces at the heart of the development and the Lee Valley Regional Park.The scheme is not only ‘green’ in terms of landscape design, energy efficiency is built-in drawing on reusable energy sources.  It uses the latest in environmental technology, with its own combined heat and power facility (CHP).  Hale Village also features green roofs, which constitute almost 20% of all roof space.Montagu Evans provided planning and development consultancy advice for the schemeBDP is the masterplanner and architectClarus Consultancy is the cost consultantPCM Management is the construction managerAnglo Irish Bank Corporation is banker for the schemeMichael Polledri said “This has been a real team effort. Without the full support of all our advisers – particularly Brian Linehan of Anglo Irish, Clive Riding of Montagu Evans and Tim Williams of BDP – this project would not have happened.”endsFor further information, contact Siobhan Crozier on 07831 214352Notes for EditorsAbout Lee Valley EstatesLee Valley Estates has been established since 1987 to promote economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe have strong local roots and local commitment and we are based in the area in which we investWe currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspace Primarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousand of SMEs to prosper and growLondon’s changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed-use schemes, to serve the needs of communities Reflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed-use development schemes, providing homes and community facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interests focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridor  http://82.110.105.85/test-lve.co.uk/news_detail.html?id=26 Starting a business takes energy, drive and a brilliant business plan. But for certain types of companies, an outstanding venue to establish their big idea is key to their success. A rare opportunity to acquire such premises has been announced by Lee Valley Estates and Hiltongrove Business Space. They are running a competition, in conjunction with the Waltham Forest Guardian, to offer the equivalent of a year’s free rent on the lease of the Great Hall, the stunning centre-piece of the former Leyton Municipal Offices.The premises are at the heart of a new development on the site of these former council offices on Leyton High Road, E10. With its newly created private entrance from the street, lobby, stairwell and other ancillary spaces totalling 5,144 sq ft (477 sq m), the Great Hall offers a superb business opportunity to the right individual or organisation.The prize will be equivalent to a twelve-month rent-free period over the duration of a ten-year lease. The partners have set up a website at www.lmogreathall.co.uk/ where potential entrants can find all the information that they need to enter. The deadline for submissions is May 31st, 2007 and the winner will be announced in early July.Lee Valley Estates and Hiltongrove Business Space acquired the Grade II listed building in late 2006. They are working closely with the conservation team at Waltham Forest Council to restore many original features such as mosaics, mouldings and ceiling features. The aim is to preserve this glorious late Victorian gem for future generations, while adapting it for contemporary uses.An investment program of over £10 million is now creating a substantial mixed-use development, which will contribute to the regeneration of Leyton. The site will provide business space, private residential and affordable housing units and leisure opportunities.At the heart of the development is the 15,000 sq ft (1,400 sq m) Legacy Business Centre, which will offer 28 prestige office suites and studios, which are expected to attract professional service providers, such as solicitors, accountants and architects. Lee Valley Estates and Hiltongrove Business Space decided to hold the competition to find the right tenant for the Great Hall because it is such an unusual space. “We want to ensure that this development will play an important role in the regeneration of Leyton, so it’s crucial that we find the right tenant, who can fully exploit the particular features of this wonderful space,” said Michael Polledri, Chairman of Lee Valley Estates.Guy Davis, Chief Executive of Hiltongrove Business Space, added, “We want to let businesses know about this opportunity to rent the space and we are looking forward to seeing some really great ideas about the different visions that companies might have for its use.”Michael Polledri discussed the idea for a competition with Pat Stannard, Editor of the Waltham Forest Guardian, who has agreed to become one of the judges. “It’s an innovative approach for finding a tenant for the Great Hall,” she said. “It’s really positive for the area, to see this local landmark being given a new lease of life and it could provide great facilities for the local community, with the right tenant operating it. It makes sense for the local paper to support the efforts of businesses to regenerate the borough.”The transformation of Leyton Municipal Offices will form part of the permanent legacy of the 2012 Olympics, which will regenerate the wider area of East London, providing new homes, facilities and employment. In line with the Mayor’s London Plan, the development will make use of the existing transport capacity, with excellent tube, bus and road transport links. The Leyton underground station is only two minutes walk from Leyton Municipal Offices.EndsFor further information, contact Siobhan Crozier on 07831 214352Notes for Editors:About Leyton Municipal OfficesThe building was designed by architect, John Johnson, in a competition that attracted more than 30 entries Building began in 1894 and was completed two years laterMost recently used as offices by the London Borough of Waltham ForestAbout Lee Valley EstatesLee Valley Estates has been established since 1987 to promote economic development throughout the Lee Valley CorridorWe have strong local roots and local commitment and we are based in the area in which we investWe currently provide almost 1,000,000 sq ft (93,000 sq m) of secure and affordable workspace Primarily a provider of workspace, we have helped thousand of SMEs to prosper and growLondon’s changing development priorities mean that brownfield sites are being converted into mixed-use schemes, to serve the needs of communities Reflecting this trend, we are increasingly involved in large, mixed-use development schemes, providing homes and community facilities alongside workspace, to support sustainable regenerationOur interests focus in two main growth corridors: the Thames Gateway and the London-Stansted-Cambridge corridorAbout Hiltongrove Business SpaceHiltongrove Business Space is a group of companies established in 1994 offering managed workspace in the North East London areaOur flagship business centre in Walthamstow E17 has helped create over 120 new jobs in the last 5 years and has played a significant part in the regeneration of the surrounding area.