Global business which is leaving Burgess Hill '˜did all it could to stay'

German-owned Vega Controls Ltd, an industrial equipment supplier, based at Kendal House in Victoria Way, is relocating to Ashdown Business Park in Uckfield.

Managing Ray Tregale said: “Our company has had strong links with Burgess Hill for almost three decades and many employees from the area, and of course we did all we could to stay whilst achieving our plans for expansion.

“Sadly it was with some regret we had no choice but to look beyond the local area.

“We were looking to invest in our own land and build our UK headquarters as a long-term commitment. Sadly, after looking for over four years we found very little on offer.

“Any local commercial buildings or land available is in the hands of large developers, with no opportunity to buy and build, only to lease.

“The new Burgess Hill hub advertises units for sale or lease but when approached they confirmed that they would only lease, same situation regarding empty buildings in the area – the Icon building being one for example.

“We engaged a specialist land agent, reached out to the council, attended local business meetings and spoke to developers with no success.

“It’s a real shame as we will have several employees that will have to commute further – however we are excited about the fantastic new building we are about to construct.”