Workington’s new innovation centre is set to open this summer.
Cumberland Council said the building, on part of the Central Car Park, was scheduled to be completed next month.
An operator has been appointed to run the centre.
Following the completion of building work at the end of March, the building will then be handed over from Cumberland Council to Oxford Innovation Space, which will fit out the building in preparation for its summer opening.
Oxford Innovation Space manages a number of similar facilities across the UK, working with local authorities, universities, science parks and investors.
The new facility will provide purpose-built accommodation for entrepreneurial businesses, as well as bringing new modern office accommodation to Workington.
The aim is to attract start-ups ready for incubation, as well as ambitious small businesses with clear growth potential. Tailored innovation and business support will be provided to customers by Oxford Innovation Space experts to help them achieve their ambitions and scale sustainably.
The four-storey building has been designed to be energy efficiency. Air source heat pumps and solar panels have been installed.
The building’s interior is flexible so it can be reconfigured to meet the needs of the customers.
There will be both private and informal meeting rooms, conference spaces, and catering facilities for building users and events.
The innovation centre also aims to complement another Workington Town Deal project, the Digital Accelerator Hub at Lakes College, Lillyhall.
Jo Stevens, managing director of Oxford Innovation Space, said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Cumberland Council to bring the Workington Innovation Centre to life.
“Our focus will be on creating a vibrant, supportive environment for digital technology and advanced manufacturing businesses with real ambition to grow.
“Beyond high-quality workspace, businesses will benefit from tailored innovation and business support, strong local partnerships, and access to a wider national network of centres. We’re already keen to speak with prospective customers who want to be part of this new chapter for Workington.”
The Innovation Centre is part of the Workington Town Deal – £23.1 million 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.
