FACILITIES at Eastleigh business Centre have played an integral role in the success of one local firm, which continues to expand.

E&M Solutions specialises in providing practical design solutions and has occupied almost every size of office in Wessex House - the Eastleigh Borough Council-run business centre.

Eastleigh Business Centre supplies low-cost, serviced offices and a range of business support for about 80 start-ups and small businesses.

In conjunction with South West Hampshire Enterprise Agencies, Eastleigh Borough Council offers financial assistance to residents setting up their own businesses.

Subject to business plan approval, applicants can receive a contribution of £500 towards their start-up costs, or 50 per cent off their rental costs at Wessex House, up to £600.

"We have been here since I outgrew our daughter's bedroom, and then my garage, when I began the company three years ago," explained managing director Colin Griffiths.

"Since then I haven't looked back, taking on a new employee every six months, and we have moved six times within Wessex House."

Colin pays tribute to the enterprise philosophy of Eastleigh Borough Council and, in particular, Sandra Giles, the manager of the business centre.

"As a new business I was eligible for the Eastleigh Enterprise Scheme and received a grant towards the cost of office accommodation for the first few months," he explained.

"The location is ideal for us, because we have contracts in many parts of the country, including Norwich, Cardiff and Hereford where we are involved in major hospital building projects.

"Sandra and her team are extremely patient with our constant requests."

Eastleigh is one of only five councils nationwide to have been awarded beacon status for its work towards encouraging business growth.