YORK developer S Harrison has been appointed to lead on a first of its kind development aimed at turning the home office concept on its head.

The Bishopthorpe Road-based business has been enlisted by Escrick Business Park to create a new development mixing office and residential space.

Phil Hill of S Harrison explains the scheme, which has won the backing of Selby and Ainsty MP Nigel Adams.

He said: "There are many small businesses which have outgrown the home office but where circumstances don’t necessarily allow investment in separate office space.

"At Escrick we have allocated four units to convert the upper floor of the two storey office space to residential accommodation, with the ground floor providing up to 700sq ft of separate self-contained offices.

"Expanding business entrepreneurs can enjoy living above the office, in a completely separate, high spec apartment in a great rural setting.

"It’s ideal for those who are at the stage in business where expansion means they need to stay on top of their work, quite literally."

"It’s a specialist market for which there is currently no provision in the area but early indications are that, with just four units currently on offer, demand may outstrip supply."

A combined 2-bed apartment and office suite is expected to be priced at £250,000

Mr Adams, MP said: "This is exactly the kind of innovative thinking which is required to help ambitious businesses grow within their means.

"It’s exciting that this scheme is being pioneered in the Selby area and shows how, as a district, we are well and truly open for business."

The scheme is yet to secure planning permission however the developers say they are confident of a postitive reception.

Mr Hill said: "If, as we believe, we can demonstrate that the demand is there, it is hard to see what planning objections could be raised.

"Escrick Business Park is a thriving hub of business with all warehousing units occupied and many of the offices already housing successful and award-winning businesses.

"We are keen to provide new options for aspiring businesses and have allocated four of the most attractive units on the park for the live/work concept to extend the business community."