Member Article

Student Loans Company expanding Darlington presence

One of Darlington’s biggest employers is expanding its presence at Lingfield Point business park.

The Student Loans Company (SLC) has been based in the award-winning Memphis building since 2008, and now employs more than 1300 people, almost double the number since it first set up in Darlington.

It has now expanded into the stylish Studios office space – taking an additional 11,000 sq ft to house the team processing Disabled Students’ Allowances, the training team and some technical development and support staff.

Derek Ross, Director of Operations and Customer Service at SLC, said the move confirms SLC’s continued commitment to Lingfield Point.

“We’re consolidating the small offices we had in the Beehive offices to create extra space for IT development and support staff.

“The creative and supportive nature of the business park, as well as its central location and great transport links, make this an excellent environment where our staff can carry out their important work.”

In keeping with the rest of Lingfield Point, Studios has been imaginatively refurbished from a former recording studio into contemporary, open-plan offices with relaxed break-out spaces and a dedicated central plaza.

Lingfield Point was redeveloped from the former Patons and Baldwins wool factory, to become one of the most sought-after business postcodes in the region, winning a number of national awards on the way.

Accolades for the Memphis Building include the British Council of Offices (BCO) Best Recycled Office Space in the UK, and five years later the BCO Test of Time award.

Dominic Moore, Clearbell’s Asset Management Director, the new owners of the site, said the SLC decision to expand at Lingfield Point was a clear indicator of the confidence the business park’s many customers have in the site and its facilities.

“We’re delighted that the Student Loans Company has decided to expand into Studios. David Jackson of letting agents Jackson & Partners said the further investment by such a major national organisation reflected the popularity of Lingfield Point as a regional business base.

“Its blend of location, facilities, services and customer-focused approach is unlike any other business park, and it’s proving an irresistible combination.”

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