FAQs

• The Core is targeted at a specific sector, how do I know whether our business is part of the Science & Technology Industries?

  The building is targeted at knowledge based SMEs and particularly at those whose work is related to innovation, science. technology or any aspect of tackling future challenges that cities face. Development, research, testing, business services and all related disciplines are part of the future community of businesses that will be based in The Core. Contact us for further information.

• Who undertook the development of The Core and who owns it?

  Newcastle City Council owns The Core and undertook development of the building on behalf of Newcastle Science City as part of its partnership with Newcastle University to develop Newcastle Helix as a new urban quarter in the city centre. This is a nationally significant project – part of the funding for the construction has been made available by European Union Regional Development Fund (2007-2013) and by Regional Growth Fund.

• What kind of legal document will I be expected to sign?

  A plain English, 12-month Licence has to be signed by Newcastle City Council and the Occupier – a draft licence can be issued on request. The licence requires a minimum commitment of just 2 months.

• What are the parking arrangements?

  Newcastle Helix has a pay & display MSCP “The Garage” is situated on Corporation Street. SatNav Postcode: NE4 5QB.

  The car park is accessed via Corporation Street and is 150 yards from the entrance.

  Staff parking can be allocated for via Newcastle City Parking Permits.

• Is a deposit needed and how is rent paid?

  Yes, you’ll need to pay a deposit of one month’s rental as well as pay your first month’s rent in advance of taking up your office. We ask you to pay your monthly rental fee by direct debit.

• Will I need insurance?

  We’ve got buildings insurance covered but you will have to arrange contents insurance and any other insurances you need for your own business.

• What are the telephone and internet costs?

  The Core provides managed telephony and internet services. You pay a monthly rental of £18 and a one-off setup fee of £45 for each digital handset. Connectivity of up to 100mbps is available on standard packages on a contended basis for a fixed price per office (£45pcm to £95pcm). Dedicated bandwidth is available at substantially below market rates. Connections are synchronous, providing excellent upload speeds. The features and resilience of the services are second to none in the UK and provide excellent value for money.

• Can I paint the walls?

  Yes, paint a wall or two or put vinyls up, whatever you like. Just return it to white before you leave.

• Is air conditioning provided in the offices?

  The building has been carefully designed so that traditional air conditioning is not required in office spaces. However it is provided in the server room and Level 2 meeting rooms. Sensitive IT equipment can be housed in the central server room and accessed via the flood-wired Cat 6 cabling infrastructure.

  Although the building is highly specified for data and connectivity, we do use some old-fashioned technology such as windows that actually open. This approach works in The Core because the floor plates are below 25m in depth, allowing air to circulate without mechanical services.

• What are the environmental features of the building?

  The building has been designed to meet high environmental standards in all aspects of its construction and ongoing operation. Achieving a BREEAM Very High environmental rating has been a condition of funding of The Core. This entails careful consideration of every feature of the design, materials, thermal insulation and has also resulted in a green roof and the design of a substantial living green wall on the north side of the building. The Core has recently been connected to the District Energy Centre on site.

• Will the prices of rent rise substantially, year on year?

  In some other buildings, prices can rise steeply once the offices become full. This won’t be the case at The Core. However, our monthly fee does include costs outside of our control such as electricity and business rates. If these costs rise, we will need to pass them on to you through an increase in costs. We’ll give you as much notice as we can if this is the case.

• Who manages The Core?

  Creative Space Management manages The Core on behalf of Newcastle City Council. Creative Space has been involved from an early stage in developing the business plan. We recruit and employ the staff  team and ensure that the building meets the needs of its occupiers and provides benchmark serviced office space in Newcastle upon Tyne.

• Can I make use of the Events Space?

  Speak to us if you want to showcase your work that relates to meeting future city challenges. The Events Space can host installations and exhibitions or seat audiences of up to 150 people.

• How do I take an enquiry forward?

  On the Offices page of this website, you can click on individual floors and view which offices are still available, their sizes and prices. Contact us if you are interested or want more information on 0191 495 7300.  Arrange to join us to have a look at the building. Put down a non-returnable deposit equivalent to one month’s rent to secure a space.