WORKERS in Weston will now be able to use office spaces and private studios after a hub opened in the former Sovereign Centre in town.
A council initiative to regenerate Weston saw the shopping complex rebranded into The Sovereign, and a 'workspace community' open for freelancers, local workers and small businesses in a scheme known as We Are Super.
Last week, councillors and local business leaders welcomed its official launch at the newly opened Bristol-based cafe called Can't Dance Coffee.
It's hoped occupying the former empty retail units will make Weston 'the best place for people to work and live'.
Speaking at the event, North Somerset Council's executive member for placemaking and economy, Cllr Mark Canniford, said the scheme is 'just the first step in bringing Weston into the 21st century'.
He added: "A huge amount of work has gone into this project. The exhibition space is tremendous and well-needed for Weston.
"It's a big investment into the town and is part of the council's ten-year placemaking strategy.
"Creating this space shows it's really important to let people know what we're really trying to achieve for the town.
"These spaces will offer people independent and flexible working options that are suitable for the modern job environment - this is where we're really leading in the West Country.
"If we can't get people to come to Weston then let's draw them in, that's the only way we can regenerate."
As well as workspaces, the cafe will double up as an event space and a new bike hub with a bicycle hire scheme will be operated by eBike UFO.
The Meanwhile Foundation will run the units on behalf of the council.
To book a unit at The Sovereign, visit www.wearesuperstudios.com.
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