Chinese developer ABP sets up global headquarters in Newham
THE BOSSES of Advanced Business Park (ABP), the Chinese developer that wants to overhaul London’s Royal Albert Docks, are to move into Newham today after a striking a deal to open global headquarters there.
At a formal signing ceremony yesterday between ABP chairman Xu Weiping and Mayor of Newham Sir Robin Wales, the developer announced it will be renting part of the fourth floor at Newham Dockside.
The building overlooks ABP’s 35-acre business park development, which is expected to bring some £6bn of investment to the UK economy and help create tens of thousands of jobs.
Speaking at the signing ceremony Weiping said: “When I announced in September that we intended to locate our global headquarters in London we were approached with a number of suggestions and options.”
“But my heart and my head both told me that the best place and most logical option was Newham. East London and the Royal Docks are fast becoming the first choice destination for business, particularly for international trade.”
Earlier this week ABP signed a separate deal with accountants PwC to provide services to help companies from China to set up in the UK at the Royal Albert Docks.
The company hopes to use the Royal Docks as a “gateway” for Chinese firms wanting to gain a foothold in the UK and Europe.
PwC will offer tax, legal and accountancy support to companies coming to the UK as part of a so-called corporate “landing service” called First Stop London, run in conjunction with ABP.
The government’s recent relaxation of visa rules for Chinese businessmen is also expected to encourage their move to the UK.
Proposals for Royal Albert Dock went on display yesterday for three days at a public exhibition at Compressor House.