The Isle of Man needs more entrepreneurs like Rumi Sethna, of Howstrake Commercial Ltd, according to Chief Minister Allan Bell.
He was speaking at the official opening of St George’s Tower, the prestigious new 11 500 sq. ft. office development in St George’s Street by Mr Sethna’s company, in Douglas. Mr Bell welcomed it as a sign that the Isle of Man could pull through the economic difficulties being faced by the whole world.
‘It is a great statement of faith in the future of the Isle of Man, that Rumi has been prepared to make this investment on top of a number of other successful investments.’ Mr Bell told an audience that included a cross section of the business community as well as Economic Development Minister John Shimmin and former Chief Minister Tony Brown.
‘With Rumi’s sizeable ambition and courage, the Isle of Man can move forward. Together we can do it, if we have faith and confidence and are prepared to take a risk – and I include in that the government.’ Mr Bell added.
‘If the economy is going to grow, the new economy is going to be based on quality.
‘I congratulate Rumi and everybody who has been associated with this development. You have set the standard for us all, and the government is right behind you.’
The 11,500 square feet development – on the site of the former, long since demolished, Forresters’ Arms pub - features four floors, with a glazed rotunda rising from street level and a roof terrace offering panoramic views towards Douglas Head and the south. The top floor with its private outdoor space is the smallest floor plate and starts at 2, 277 sq. ft. rising to 3, 334 sq. ft. which is a typical floor below.
It was designed by Kay Associates and built by Auldyn Construction.
Chrystals are handling the enquiries for companies wishing to set up their base in the new offices, which are just a minute’s walk from Athol Street. David Watson commented: ‘The accommodation surpasses other space being offered in the market with its contemporary finish and stylish design plus the latest specification of raised access floors, comfort cooling and both motion sensors and photo cell control to lighting.’
Mr Sethna, whose previous developments include the prestige apartments at the former Falcon Brewery site at the bottom of Murray’s Road in Douglas, also had praise for the government for backing business.
‘It is important for entrepreneurs to know that the political leaders are making the right decisions to encourage businesses to be in the island,’ he said.
‘This office development has been in the planning since 2007 when Tony Brown was Chief Minister. His leadership and that of Allan Bell, who was then Treasury Minister, encouraged my wife (Hilda) and me to invest heavily in this beautiful island.’
Photo - L-R: Economic Development Minister John Shimmin, Hilda Sethna, Chief Minister Allan Bell and Rumi Sethna. Picture Andrew Barton
