Hughes Architects Positioned to Guide Businesses Through Mid Wales Commercial Property Investment Fund
As the Mid Wales Growth Deal launches its Commercial Property Investment Fund, local businesses have a significant opportunity to secure co-investment for property development and expansion.
Hughes Architects, with over two decades of experience in architectural design and planning consultancy across Mid Wales, is ideally positioned to guide businesses through what can often be a complex application process.
The Mid Wales Commercial Property Investment Fund aims to support enterprises based in the region (or those looking to relocate) by enabling the development of new commercial property or extending, renovating, refurbishing or converting existing premises. With works cost values ranging from £250,000 to £2.5 million and potential funding of up to 45% of project costs (maximum £1 million), this represents a substantial opportunity for businesses looking to invest in their future.
Extensive Regional Experience
Doug Hughes, Managing Director and Principal Architect at Hughes Architects, said: "The planning application process is the backbone of any project's success. Our architectural and planning team's collective experience allows us to anticipate challenges and find innovative solutions that move projects forward."
Established in 2001, Hughes Architects has developed an unrivalled understanding of the Mid Wales commercial landscape. With offices in Newtown and Welshpool in Powys, the practice works with clients throughout Wales, the border areas of Shropshire and Herefordshire, and beyond.
The practice's architectural and planning consultancy services have been refined over more than 20 years to ensure clients achieve their project goals efficiently and cost-effectively. With an impressive 98% success rate in planning applications, Hughes Architects has the expertise to help businesses navigate what can often seem like a daunting process.
Richard Lewis, Director and Architect at Hughes Architects, explained: "Experience not only ensures adherence to regulations but also allows us to transform constraints into design opportunities. This approach sets us apart in delivering projects that are both visionary and practical."
A Comprehensive Service for Investment Fund Applicants
Businesses considering applying for the Mid Wales Commercial Property Investment Fund face several key requirements, including demonstrating the ability to leverage private sector finance, contributing to the region's Gross Value Added, and creating sustainable jobs. Hughes Architects offers a complete service to help enterprises meet these criteria through thoughtful design and planning.
The practice provides what many clients describe as a "one-stop shop" for project planning, eliminating the need for multiple consultants. Their services now include structural and civil engineering, SuDS drainage services, and ecological consultancy, in addition to planning, architectural and conservation architecture services.
Pre-Application Expertise
Hughes Architects' experience with pre-application consultations is particularly valuable for businesses applying to the fund. The practice has significant experience implementing pre-planning application processes with landowners and developers, ensuring that community engagement requirements are met effectively.
"It's about ensuring the right plans are prepared and any concerns or comments are addressed before going to planning. In most cases this ensures planning approval is granted in the first attempt," said Richard Lewis.
Is the Fund Right for Your Business? The Mid Wales Commercial Property Investment Fund is designed for businesses looking to grow but restricted by accommodation issues. To qualify, projects must respond to the fund's three investment objectives, require a grant to close a financial viability gap, and run for no more than two years beyond any grant award.
Hughes Architects can help businesses determine if the fund is appropriate for their needs and guide them through the initial conversation with the Fund Management Team, the creation of a 'Viability Proposal', and subsequent 'Developed Proposal' stages.
For businesses in Mid Wales looking to capitalise on this investment opportunity, Hughes Architects offers the regional expertise, planning knowledge, and comprehensive architectural services needed to develop a successful application and bring their property vision to life.
For more information about how Hughes Architects can assist with your commercial property plans and Mid Wales Commercial Property Investment Fund applications, contact their team at enquiries@hughesarchitects.co.uk or call 01686 610311.
