Work has begun to build an innovation centre in West Cumbria.
The centre, in Workington, will provide purpose-built accommodation for entrepreneurial businesses.
Located on part of the former Central Car Park in Workington town centre and it is primarily aimed at digital technology and advanced manufacturing businesses.
The aim is to attract start-ups ripe for incubation, as well as small businesses ready for growth.
Expert support will be available to help them achieve their ambitions from operating company, Oxford Innovation Space. It manages a number of similar facilities across the UK, working with local authorities, universities, science parks and investors.
The first stages of work involve site clearance and the removal of rubble and slag-material, with the groundworks expected to be completed early in 2025.
The Innovation Centre is expected to open in spring 2026.
Morgan Sindall Construction has been appointed as the main contractor to deliver the project. Part of its work will involve developing a comprehensive social plan to add value back into the Workington community.
This includes work with the Cumbria Youth Alliance, as well as working alongside Cumberland Council’s Employability Partnership.
As part of the sustainability measures, Morgan Sindall will improve the stretch of Hadrian’s Cycleway that runs through Workington and also promote training in social value and carbon literacy to businesses and potential tenants of the centre.
The Innovation Centre is funded by the Workington Town Deal – £23.1million of Government funding for a range of transformative projects, which also include a new sports village and improvements to Workington Port, as well as improved public realm.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Mark Fryer, said: “It will be good to see building work begin on this initiative which will fill a gap in the entrepreneurial support and high-quality office accommodation available in and around Workington.
“This, combined, with the neighbouring NHS Diagnostic Centre, which is also in the process of being constructed, will transform this area of the town. They will also increase footfall to the town centre, which is great news for the local economy too.”
John Coughlan, chairman of the Workington Town Deal Board, said: “What a festive gift for the town, with work starting this side of Christmas.
“This will be transformational for Workington attracting high-quality start-ups, leading to a growth in advanced manufacturing and technology jobs, and increasing footfall and spending power. We are now seeing the real value of the work which secured £23.1 million for Workington and the greater region.”
Alex Isted, area director for Morgan Sindall in the North East and Cumbria, said: “To support the transformation of our economy, we must also support the creation of Innovation Centre hubs to foster organic economic development.
“These centres create an environment of creativity and stimulate a cooperative dynamic between budding businesses, which we are happy to facilitate through the application of our expertise.”
