FAQs
Toffee Factory is targeted at a specific sector, how do I know whether our business is part of the Creative and Digital Industries?
Video production, animation, web design, software development, publishing, and all design related disciplines are part of the creative industries sector. Contact info@toffeefactory.co.uk for further information.
When did Toffee Factory open?
Toffee Factory opened its doors on the 19 December 2011.
What kind of legal document will I be expected to sign?
You will be asked to sign an annual short-term lease, which allows a two-month notice at any point, providing a highly flexible working environment.
Who undertook the development of Toffee Factory and who owns it?
Toffee Factory was developed by 1NG on behalf of Newcastle City Council. The project has been funded through European Regional Development Funding (ERDF), Single Programme and Newcastle City Council. The building is owned by Newcastle City Council and they oversee the contract for its operation.
What are the parking arrangements?
Toffee Factory has limited on-site parking facilities set aside for disabled parking and deliveries. Visitor and staff parking is a short walk away at Ouseburn South Car Park, a 100+ space car park. Click here for directions.
Is a deposit needed and how is rent paid?
Yes, you’ll need to pay a deposit of one month’s rental as well as pay your first month’s rent in advance of taking up your office.
Will I need insurance?
We’ve got buildings insurance covered but you will have to arrange contents insurance and any other insurances you need for your own business.
What are the telephone and internet costs?
Toffee Factory provides managed telephony and internet services. You pay a monthly rental of £18 and a one-off setup fee of £25 for each digital handset. Connectivity of up to 100mbps is available on standard packages on a contended basis for a fixed price per office (£45pcm to £95pcm). Dedicated bandwidth is available at substantially below market rates. Connections are synchronous, providing excellent upload speeds. The features and resilience of the services are second to none in the UK and provide excellent value for money. Click here for further information.
Can I paint the walls?
Yes, paint a wall or two or put vinyls up, whatever you like. Just return it to white before you leave.
Is air conditioning provided in the offices?
No, with the exception of the server room area there is generally no air conditioning. Any sensitive IT equipment can be housed in the server room and accessed via the CAT 6 cabling infrastructure.
Although the building is highly specified for data and connectivity, we do use some old-fashioned technology such as windows that actually open. This approach works in Toffee Factory because the floor plates are below 25m in depth, allowing air to circulate without mechanical services.
What are the environmental features of the building?
The building has been designed to meet high environmental standards in all aspects of its refurbishment and ongoing operation. Achieving a BREEAM Very High environmental rating has been a condition of Toffee Factory’s refurbishment funding.
Some of the environmental features include a biomass boiler that utilises wood chip pellets for heating, energy use feedback to every office, a green sedum roof, cycle racks and showers.
"The team at the Toffee Factory do a great job in fuelling a creative work place. They put a lot of effort into what many landlords might consider to be the softer side of working life such as organising exciting food, cultural and leisure events. These things make a big positive difference to creative teams like ours and the other businesses in the building."
Tanya Garland – Managing Director of Cool Blue
