Birmingham has missed out on a major requirement because of lack of available space.
An anonymous US-based manufacturer of solar cells, which had been eyeing St Modwen’s Longbridge site and one of regional development agency Advantage West Midlands’ projects, has switched its search to South Wales.
A source said the firm had cancelled its 150,000 sq ft-plus search because no quality manufacturing space was immediately available.
“The company was particularly taken by Longbridge’s Cofton Centre, but another occupier got in there before them,” he said.
St Modwen had suggested that the firm occupy part of its East Works site instead while it built a bespoke plant, but the offer was rejected as the firm, which is planning an AIM flotation next year, wants a built HQ to impress investors.
References: EGi News 25/08/06
