ONE of Darlington’s biggest employers is growing its presence in the town by taking on extra office space.

The Student Loans Company (SLC) has been based in the Memphis building at Lingfield Point Business Park 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 Studios offices 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, explained: “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,” he added.

Lingfield Point was redeveloped from the former Patons and Baldwins wool factory, to become an award winning business hub.

Dominic Moore, of Clearbell’s, which recently bought Lingfield Point from property company Marchday, said: “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,” he said.