Connect Derby has worked alongside fit-out specialists DSP (Interiors) Ltd to relocate three local businesses from the iHub innovation centre on Infinity Park to make way for the new Nuclear Skills Academy.

The team at DSP (Interiors) Ltd have carried out the design and fit-out of four new units for previous iHub tenants Composite Braiding Ltd, HPS Ltd and Addqual Ltd on Ivygrove Developments’ new Dunstall Park Road estate, off Ascot Drive in the city.

Connect Derby and Derby City Council were a key partner in delivering the Nuclear Skills Academy at the iHub. This included supporting existing iHub tenants Composite Braiding, HPS and Addqual to find alternative accommodation.

DSP’s role was to fit out four individual speculative units – two units for Composite Braiding, and one unit each for HPS and Addqual – at Dunstall Park Road. The speed in which both the designs and builds could be undertaken were crucial to the success of this Academy project, which is the first of its kind in the UK.

DSP’s vast experience in designing, managing, and installing turnkey projects of this nature was essential to meet the extremely tight timescales required. To achieve this the three projects were undertaken in tandem; taking into consideration the needs of each company to design a bespoke facility for each individual business. 

Composite Braiding specialise in thermoplastic composite braiding technology and needed a facility to enable them to scale up their operations. Heating and plumbing specialists HPS Ltd required a workplace to accommodate both their office and site-based activities. Manufacturing services business Addqual needed a workspace to support their continued growth.  

All the units, which were core base build units, required extensive fit outs to suit each client’s individual operations. Each unit required a mezzanine floor installing to provide additional space including all supporting fixtures and fittings such as fire rating, suspended ceilings, partitions, flooring, decoration, toilets, kitchens and more.

In addition, DSP undertook the design and installation of all the mechanical, electrical and plumbing services required including air-conditioning, ventilation, lighting, fire alarms, intruder alarms, power, data and so on. 

Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, who managed the relocation project for Derby City Councill, said:

“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Andy and his team for their exceptional work on the three fit-out projects. Their unwavering professionalism was evident throughout the entire process.

“They played a crucial role in addressing various challenges, demonstrating their expertise gained from their extensive experience in past construction and fit-out projects. Their guidance and solutions were invaluable.”

Andy Priestley, director of DSP (Interiors) Ltd, added:

“We were delighted to be selected by Derby City Council to carry out the design and fit outs for Composite Braiding, HPS and Addqual at Dunstall Park Road. Our dedicated team has worked closely with all three businesses to create spaces that align with their vision and provide a functional and visually appealing home for them and their staff.”

“The new premises at Dunstall Park Road will provide each business with the ideal foundation to drive their continued growth.”

Steve Barbour, managing director of Composite Braiding, said:

“Thanks go out to everyone at DSP Interiors for carrying out a first-rate job. Their expertise, attention to detail and understanding of our specific requirements has turned an empty shell into a building which will be able to accommodate our future growth.”

Peter Dashey, director of HPS, added:

“We are delighted with the facility that the empty shell has become and would recommend DSP to any business looking to developing their premises into a dynamic space, with thought to efficiency of space and layout.”

DSP Interiors is a multi-award-winning design and fit-out company that has been providing bespoke interior design and professional fit-out services for more than 35 years. The company works across the Midlands and beyond and has built up an enviable client list.