The Officers’ Quarters, Weedon Bec
The Depot is the perfect location to base your business.
Queen Victoria wasn’t long into her historic reign when the military hospital at Weedon Bec was first built before being converted into accommodation for army personnel. Now the heritage building is starting a new lease of life as six elegantly-refurbished executive suites equipped with the latest smart technology at “The Depot” Grade II listed Northamptonshire business park.
“The Depot” itself is a former army stores and barracks which dates back over 200 years, now extensively refurbished and converted into 200,000 sq ft of character business space. It was created to house essential supplies and munitions for our armed forces as part of the nation’s emergency defence plans against the threat of a Napoleonic invasion.
Then – as now – The Depot was at the very heart of Britain’s logistics network and the canals that once ferried goods and personnel around the country have long since been replaced by trains and roads. A disused spur of the canal is now home to a wealth of wildlife.
“We’re now 10 years down the line since taking over The Depot and refurbishing the buildings for modern use while retaining their heritage,” says owner Michael Chittenden. “We have over 100 businesses based here now, so it makes sense to offer them the facility to stay overnight on site if they wish, or for anyone visiting them to have that convenience.
“The suites provide guests with plenty of room to work, relax and make yourself at home. We’re just minutes from the motorway network in a secure, quiet and relaxing location – with ample free parking, 24-hour keyless access, ultrafast Wifi and other excellent benefits.” The décor in the rooms include reminders of the site’s patriotic heritage, featuring the bold use of Union Flags.
The architect for the Depot renovation project is Paul Vick, who says that bringing The Old Storeholder’s Quarters back to life marks a significant point in the site’s history. “Before we became involved, the original plans for the site involved knocking down buildings of great historical interest. Our approach has been to restore the buildings one by one, making them fit for use for centuries to come.
“Buildings that were once only useful for basic storage and distribution are now characterful, flexible business units – including an 18,000 sq ft co-working office space.”
The site also hosts a visitor centre, café and shops. Future plans include a care home and independent living accommodation, apartments and a hotel.
