Storm-hit Framlingham Technology Centre reopens ground floor after £720,000 refurbishment

A technology centre, which sustained substantial damage due to Storm Babet, has reopened after a £720,000 upgrade.

The ground floor of Framlingham Technology Centre, which opened in 2001, was hit by devastating flooding in October.

The effects of the storm disrupted operations and forced businesses to relocate to higher floors, with sixteen of the site’s staff members even having to sleep on makeshift beds as the storm battered the building.

But now, after extensive work refurbishing the floor, the state-of-the-art technology centre has officially reopened its doors at an official event.

Tony Stockman, chairman of the centre, said: “Framlingham Technology Centre was established on the principle that, while ideas may originate in an individual mind, they truly thrive when a community comes together to nurture them.

“This substantial investment reflects our dedication to improving collaboration, generating skilled job opportunities and bolstering the region’s vibrant business community.

“The new facilities are tailored to empower entrepreneurs, start-ups and established businesses alike, ensuring that Framlingham Technology Centre continues to serve as a dynamic hub for innovation and growth.”

As part of the reconstruction project, carried out by Suffolk-based contractor Mixbrow, a new reception area has been created, along with a refreshment zone, lounge, conference facilities and state-of-the-art office and workshop spaces.

Part of the ground floor has been redeveloped into a hub and co-working area, called FramFlex, which the site hopes will provide businesses with a modern, collaborative environment designed to encourage innovation and growth.

The centre, in Station Road, has already earned a reputation as a thriving hub and has delivered significant economic benefits to the region, with businesses collectively achieving an annual turnover exceeding £16 million in recent years.