A £30,000 funding package is in place to bring esports to Cumbria.
Esports are set to become an Olympic sport in 2027 and 10 professional grade gaming stations are coming to Whitehaven’s new digital and gaming hub.
Global firm Atos is funding the gaming stations at Levels, the £4 million redevelopment of the former Whittles building on Duke Street.
Social impact property developers BEC is behind the transformation, which will also include VR, immersive education, studio spaces, and a café.
The gaming stations will power local and national esports leagues.
Gemma Leadbetter, chief operating officer at BEC, said: “Levels is a one-of-a-kind offer that combines immersive entertainment and education in an inspiring space where young people can socialise and learn using state of the art technology and step confidently into digital futures.
“Atos’ investment puts high-quality esports equipment into their hands right away and helps us build a sustainable programme that reaches schools, clubs and communities across West Cumbria.”
According to British Esports, the sector generated more than 1,200 jobs across the UK in 2019, spanning roles in management, content creation, and professional play.
British Esports recently announced that its first Gaming Arena is opening in Sunderland next year.
Gemma added: “The upcoming opening of the British Esports Arena in Sunderland really cements the importance of an esports presence here in Cumbria.
“Aside from the technical skills which taking part in esports develops, it also helps young people build transferable skills such as teamwork, communication and problem-solving, while creating lasting friendships and a real sense of community.”
Atos is a global leader in AI-powered digital transformation that provides cybersecurity, cloud and high-performance computing.
Michael Herron, head of Atos UK&I, said: “We’re delighted to be able to support Sellafield and BEC through this important initiative that gives young people the opportunity to gain digital skills and, importantly, have fun! With many of our teams based in West Cumbria, this is a proud moment for us.”
The high-spec machines will provide young gamers and students with platforms for gaming and esports, delivering fast, optimal performance for gaming and multi-tasking.
