Plans to create a unique digital gaming hub are on the cards for Whitehaven.
BEC, which has redeveloped the former Whittles building on Duke Street, wants to know what people think – and especially what the town’s young people want to see there.
Michael Pemberton, chief executive of BEC, said: “I made a commitment to people when we bought Whittles, that it will be a development for people who may feel overlooked, I feel purposeful and absolutely committed to creating this futuristic development.”
“It’s really important that we build a community, one where Gen Z feel welcome, supported and encouraged to grow their skills, showcase their talent, have fun and be part of something special.”
The aim is to inspire youngsters to pursue careers in the high growth digital and gaming sectors and provide a collaborative space for digital and gaming start-ups.
“BEC has an ambition and purpose to create environments and locations where people can succeed, attracting inward investment opportunities and creating more prosperous communities.
“With the recent redevelopment of the Bus Station, we’ve shown how our heritage buildings – key to our identity, with character and personality of their own – can be conserved with a creative and viable proposition by making sure they serve new communities in relevant and exciting ways.”
“At the consultation, we want to spark the public’s interest and excitement, and I’m really looking forward to meeting everyone and hearing their thoughts.”
The event at the Beacon Portal, in Whitehaven, will run from November 9 to November 11.
People will be able to take part in interactive virtual reality games and engage with a digitally focused event, thanks to Carlisle-based firm VR Gateway.
The consultation is open to the public, local schools, and businesses – with the team at BEC particularly keen to hear from those aged between 11 and 21.
They want to understand what the younger generation would like to see inside the building, what their key interests in the world of digital and gaming are, their favourite industry brands and how they’d like to be involved.
To register for the event visit discoverbec.com/gaming
