Global swimwear brand, Speedo, is reinforcing its long-term commitment to the East Midlands and safeguarding high quality jobs for the region’s workers with the announcement of its intention to move its international headquarters to new premises at at Ng2, Nottingham’s premier business location.

Speedo has signed a 17-year lease to a new high-tech office facility being built on the prime Ng2 business park site in the centre of Nottingham. Being developed by Miller Birch Partnership construction is due to commence on the new facility later this year subject to final planning approval.

The new purpose built premises, due for completion at the end of 2010, will provide a state-of-the-art working environment for Speedo’s 170-strong Nottingham workforce currently based at offices on Ascot Road.

With 43,000 square feet set over three floors, the more spacious offices will provide a fitting location as the brand, which recently celebrated its 80th anniversary, builds on its success. The site will provide improved cutting-edge facilities for the development of new Speedo products at its dedicated global Aqualab Research and Development Centre, and act as the brand’s international base for visiting partners and Speedo sponsored athletes.

The central location will provide excellent transport links, plentiful parking and a stop on the route of the proposed tram extension to the west of the city, supporting the increased flow of UK and international customers to the purpose-built showroom at the site.

Featuring a full height glass atrium foyer and a striking zinc clad wall bearing the well-recognised Speedo logo, the build design incorporates the latest environmental features. These include optimised use of natural light through solar control glazed windows; intelligent lighting with movement and daylight sensors; energy saving air source heat pump technology and borehole water for grey water systems.

Speedo has worked closely with the East Midlands Development Agency (emda) on the project for the new offices. emda are continuing to support the brand with funding for R&D and training, enabling the move to forge ahead despite the current economic climate.

Speedo President, David Robinson, said: ‘Speedo has a long history with the Nottingham area and we wanted to continue this connection. The quality of the new building along with its centrally located site, will help us to attract and retain the highest calibre staff. It will also be a fitting new home for our R&D centre, Aqualab, which continues to ensure Speedo remains at the forefront of swim technology.’

‘I would particularly like to acknowledge the support and assistance that Speedo has received from Nottingham City Council and the East Midlands Development Agency; without their involvement it would not have been possible for us to secure this fantastic new office space.’

Peter Gadsby, Chairman of East Midlands Developer Miller Birch said: ‘I am delighted to welcome Speedo to ng2. As a world recognised brand, known for leading the field, Speedo reinforces the reputation of ng2 as the premier business location in Nottingham and the Midlands.’

‘Miller Birch has worked extremely hard with Speedo’s team to design a facility befitting its status as a Global Headquarters. I am confident we will go on to deliver yet another iconic building of which the city of Nottingham can be proud.’

East Midlands Development Agency Chief Executive, Jeff Moore, said: ‘I am absolutely delighted that Speedo is securing their base in Nottingham. To have an internationally recognised successful company based in the city benefits the whole region. Their ongoing presence will help secure hundreds of jobs through the supply chain and research facilities used to develop new products such as the Speedo LZR Racer swimsuit as worn by Olympic Mansfield swimmer, Rebecca Adlington. emda has a long standing relationship with the company and it is gratifying to see them go from strength to strength.’

Deputy Leader of Nottingham City Council, Councillor Graham Chapman, said: ‘Speedo is one of the great international brands which grew in Nottingham and will now stay in Nottingham. We have worked tirelessly with various agencies to try and get this result so I’m absolutely delighted that Speedo’s needs can be met on the Ng2 business park. It's great for Speedo and it's great for Nottingham, safeguarding local jobs.’