Chancellor Impressed by Creative Space Solutions

A Scottish charity that supports people with learning disabilities across Aberdeenshire and Moray has had its new Aberdeen headquarters praised by Chancellor Alistair Darling.

In addition to praising Inspire’s work, Mr Darling – who was on a personal visit to the charity – also said he was impressed with the multi-resource centre at Beach Boulevard, which was designed by Aberdeen-based workplace specialist Space Solutions.

Mr Darling said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Inspire in Aberdeen. I appreciated the very warm welcome and was impressed by every aspect of the building, from the imaginative use of space to the great views across the North Sea.  

“Organisations like Inspire are invaluable and deserve our support and I wish them every success in the future.”

Space Solutions were appointed as designers and project managers for the development which involved transforming a brownfield site into a facility which includes offices, a public cafe as well as training and conference facilities – all designed to be accessed by people with disabilities.

Space Solutions Managing Director Steve Judge said: “We tried to create a work space that would not only benefit the charity’s staff, but also all of the people that Inspire helps support in the region.

“We were not surprised that the Chancellor decided to praise the important charity work that Inspire does in the North East, but we were very happy that he made a point of saying how impressed he was with their new headquarters. To have our design highlighted by him is a great testament to the hard work of all of our staff who helped deliver this iconic building.”

Space Solutions is Scotland’s biggest independent expert in helping businesses manage changes within the workplace. It operates UK-wide – from bases in Aberdeen, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Dundee and Livingston  – to design, build, fit out, refurbish and relocate modern and productive business environments 

Inspire is now one of Scotland’s largest charities, offering support to around 650 children, young people and adults with learning disabilities throughout North East Scotland.  The organisation provides a range of more than 60 services throughout Aberdeen city, Aberdeenshire and Moray.

Catriona McPhee-Smith, Inspire’s Chief Executive, said:  “During the development of our Boulevard Project, we enjoyed an excellent relationship with Space Solutions and their team. We were very impressed by the professionalism, enthusiasm and creativity applied which has resulted in a marvellous building which houses our two social enterprises, Café Coast and Inspire Conferences. 

“I am delighted that the Chancellor, Alastair Darling, appreciated the imagination and inspiration applied in developing this centre of excellence which benefits people with learning disabilities.”

Scottish public relations agency the Holyrood Partnership, provides PR for Space Solutions.