A FORMER North-East broadcasting landmark has been given a new lease of life as offices for start-up and growing businesses.

Near the River Derwent, in Gateshead, the former home of Metro Radio, has been transformed into an area where businesses can grow.

The Office Company, established by Lynn Gate, aims to support new enterprises by providing fully serviced accommod- ation on flexible terms.

Ms Gate, who also owns The Storage Company, said: "Times can be tough when you are starting a new business or trying to grow, with all the red tape and the practical hoops you have to jump through.

"I know from experience what it is like and it is my passion to be able to help young, entrepreneurial businesses. We need in this region to give them all the support we can."

Performing the official opening, Sir Peter Vardy said: "Helping young enterprises to get started is such a need in this region - we need 33,000 new businesses just to catch up to the national average.

"When I was starting a new company, I couldn't believe how difficult it was just to get telephones and computers connected. Here, all that is already done. Businesses can come in, sit at a desk, pick up the phone and get started. They are supported, encouraged and will grow."

The building has a conference room, disabled access, a secure entry system and the latest broadband and telecoms connections.

Onsite personnel provide administration and catering services.