The refurbishment of the Civic Offices in Epping has been hailed as an "inspirational development" by Epping Forest MP Dame Eleanor Laing who says the project will save taxpayers' money and improve services.
Dame Eleanor said: "I was delighted to visit the new look Epping Forest District Council offices today.
"Looking to the future, the council leaders have reconfigured the entire building to make better use of resources and to look forward to new ways of working."
Dame Eleanor added: "They have freed up space on the site which will be used for much needed affordable housing and a large section of the Civic Offices building will be rented out to local businesses.
"Their plan to bring all services under one roof will mean massive improvements for local people.
"I am really impressed by the way in which this inspirational development will save tax payers' money while at the same time improving services.
"I really look forward to the opening of the building once COVID-19 restrictions allow."
Epping Forest District Council has said the refurbishment has been completed on time and within budget.
The transformation of the building is part of the council's investment in the future and the council's aim to become Carbon Neutral by 2030.
The council says marketing of the top floor to commercial businesses has sparked major interest from not just local companies but those from further afield looking to grow their enterprises in an Essex location with excellent transport links into London, further afield and internationally.
Viewings are ongoing and conversations are taking place with a number of interested parties.
The council’s strategy is to deliver services as close to the customer as possible and the new 'Community Hub' on the ground floor will be much more than just a place for district council services.
Other public and voluntary organisations will be working side-by-side with district council officers and alongside Essex Police which already shares the Civic Offices.
Qualis - the council-owned private companies - will also be taking up residence in the new offices.
New meeting and conference facilities will be available for hire, accommodating from just a few people up to 200 seated theatre-style.
