A BUSINESSWOMAN has defended the rents charged by a university set up to help fledgling companies.

Pam Withrington has been using the Business Incubation Centre at the University of Essex’s Southend campus for two years.

The centre been criticised by the Essex Federation of Small Businesses and its first business tenant over the level of rents.

Ms Withrington, from marketing and sales consultants Withrington Associates, said: “Having made the decision to move to the centre two years ago, it is one of the best business decisions I have ever made.

“I find the package on offer is perfect, meaning I don’t have to worry about receiving bills for services. I know exactly how much I have to find to pay the rent every month.

“This is so important for a small business – being able to budget and manage my finances like this has definitely helped me to concentrate on growing my business without having to worry.”

David Mills from the Essex FSB called for rents to be reviewed at the centre saying they were “above market levels”.

Jenny Grinter, University of Essex spokeswoman, said: “We are disappointed the federation has not discussed its concerns before going to the media.”

She added the increase was the first since the centre opened and tenants were told of the planned increase in September 2008.

She added: “Rents are inclusive of all services such as business rates, water, heating, electricity, reception, internet and telephone access and security, as well as the use of meeting rooms.”