Nestled in the heart of Wavertree lies Sandown Lane, a quaint conservation road lined with Victorian houses, leafy gardens, and even has its own public house for Friday evening tipples - The Edinburgh. There are few streets that are so varied as Sandown Lane, with examples from almost every period from 1830’s to the 1980’s. Central to the lane stands a Wesleyan Methodist Chapel built in 1837, which faces a row of twelve large town houses known as “Sandown Terrace”. No longer a chapel, this building now houses many businesses in its ageing walls.

When the chapel closed its doors to its paritioners, it was bought by a local business man, who rented space to make wardrobes and at a later date produce j-cloths. Over a period of time, and after both business had moved on, the Chapel became victim to anti social behaviour, and became decayed and derelict. Three enterprising men Keith Morrisroe, Andrew Gavin and Ian Shields  purchased the Chapel with a view to convert the building into affordable modern office space. The conversion was granted (amid some careful conservation area planning) and work began early in 2007.

Now I know many of you will be wondering what’s so special about this office space compared to the hundreds of others available at present? Well I’m going to tell you what makes this centre unique.

The offices are reasonably priced and are affordable for small businesses just starting out. The location is quiet, pleasant and some what whimsical (only applicable if you’re a women who reads Jane Austin) without all the hustle and bustle of town, not to mention extortionate rental prices and huge parking costs that come with the town location. They are perfect for any start-up or business wanting to cut their costs but retain their profile. This centre offers a real sense of community not just in the Imap centre, but on the whole of Sandown Lane itself. It has great links to both the city centre and airport, with the Wavertree station 2 stops from town and just five minutes walk from the centre. There is no payment required for parking and traffic to and from the office is reasonable. There is the benefit of being close to Wavertree Technology Park for business relations, but without the cost of renting there. So why go anywhere else? The Imap Centre has it all, and can save you time and stress.

The centre also offers a virtual reception service, so if you’re away from the office you’re calls will be taken for you in your business name by the helpful receptionists. Their mailbox service is fantastic for those who are looking for a an office presence in Liverpool, and their “Hot Desking” service is perfect for those busy sales reps who need a base in Liverpool for just one day per week.

The centre benefits from having their own on site IT support for those hairy moments we all dread as our computers decide to go crazy. There is the high spec training, meeting and conference room which  has an overhead projector, AV system and boardroom layout with eight directors’ chairs. This room can be organised into a seminar format for training sessions, and is available for evening or weekend hire. Its also perfect for those monthly special interest club meetings.

The centre offers a warm, friendly, professional atmosphere. The offices are furnished (optional) spacious and well lit. They are also fully air-conditioned and have high speed wireless internet access. The modern décor throughout the building is tasteful and the onsite catering facilities, such as adjoining kitchen and canteen areas with seating and refreshment machines are both pleasant and convenient, but if you want to go out for something to eat, Picton Road is a one minute stroll, boasting bakeries, a petrol station and post office for those busy lunchtimes.

Businesses are encouraged to view what’s on offer at the Imap centre and if interested can rent their own space. The wide range of businesses currently renting an office at the Imap centre include, Letting agent Belvoir, Energy Experts, Gas Engineers, School Utilities, Tax Assistant, Swift security, etc.

With a recovering economy, very reasonable rents and such flexible terms, the Imap Business Centre is set for a very healthy 2010. If your interested in looking at the centre, why not contact Kieth, Ian, or Andy through the email below.

imapreception@googlemail.com

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