*The new Metaswitch building in Genotin Road, Enfield Town*

Five-storey office building now open in Enfield Town, reports James Cracknell

A new five-storey office building will give the local economy a much-needed boost, according to Enfield Council.

International technology firm Metaswitch this month completed its new global headquarters in Genotin Road, which can accommodate 500 staff. Its former site, a smaller office building in Church Street, will be torn down for new housing.

The council was said to have played a “pivotal role” in the development, allowing Metaswitch – recently taken over by Microsoft – to build its new HQ on a former car park, while also funding the £27million construction cost.

It will now provide a regular income for the local authority through rent, with a 15-year lease agreed, while shoppers can continue to use the site as a car park thanks to an agreement allowing visitors to the town centre use of up to 96 car parking spaces during evenings and weekends. There are also 20 charging points available for electric vehicles.

Martin Lund, chief executive of Metaswitch, said: “While we are working from home for now to protect our employees, customers, partners and their families, we look forward to the time when it is safe to welcome our team to a new workplace that is designed to nurture the creativity, productivity, and care that they contribute every day.

“As a key employer of highly skilled software engineers, Metaswitch will continue to support our local Enfield community as we grow our business.”

The office building, said to be highly energy-efficient, was built by Stoford and designed by BDP Architects and includes a rooftop conference centre, full-height atrium and collaboration workspaces.

Gerard Ludlow, director at Stoford, said: “This prestigious project is a great example of the private and public sector working together to deliver a first-class regeneration scheme in Enfield.

“We’re proud to have played our role in bringing forward this high-profile development for a key employer in this town.”

Michael Duff, project architect at BDP, added: “Metaswitch’s new HQ in Enfield is a world-class workplace, designed to encourage collaboration and to reflect the modern standards of office design.

“The building exudes innovation and teamwork, from the vibrant façade to the multi-storey atrium through to the open-plan office space and flexible amenity areas.”

Metaswitch’s main offices have been in Enfield since the company was founded 40 years ago in 1981.

Council leader Nesil Caliskan said: “This is a fantastic example of how proactive the council can be in supporting existing businesses to flourish. The success of this project will, I am certain, open the doors to further dialogue with other businesses.

“Metaswitch is a valued, long-time employer providing highly-skilled jobs. We are delighted the company decided to remain and expand in Enfield as a vital contributor to our community and build its new global headquarters in our town centre.

“We want to work closely together to understand local employers’ ambitions and requirements and see where we can help to make their visions a reality while retaining their presence in the borough.

“This latest development complements the council’s wide-reaching inward investment, regeneration plans and support for employment at a time when the local economy needs as much support as possible.”

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