PENZANCE Creative Cluster – a dedicated workspace and hub for creative businesses will open next summer, Cornwall Council has confirmed.

The building will provide up to 30 modern studios and flexible workspaces at Causewayhead for businesses within the diverse creative sector, from high tech digital companies to visual and performing artists.

As well as providing dedicated space for a thriving industry in the centre of town, the project also aims to boost the local economy. With more people working in the town centre, there is the potential for increased footfall and spend.

The project had been due to be completed this autumn. However, due to delays with the construction programme, the building will now be complete in summer 2024.

Louis Gardner, Cornwall Council cabinet portfolio holder for economy, said: "While I’m sure news of delays to the opening date will come as a disappointment to many in the town, I want to reassure residents that we - and our contractors Kier – are committed to completing this project as quickly as possible.

“We have already received lots of interest from businesses wanting to be based here and we are committed to ensuring the first tenants will be working from the building in summer 2024."

Tim Dwelly, Cornwall Council Member for Penzance East, said: "To revitalise our high streets we have to bring businesses – and, as a result, jobs – to our town centres. That’s why the Penzance Creative Cluster building is so important to the town. Cornwall has more people working within the creative industries than any other rural area in the UK and we know there is an opportunity to grow this sector further by providing high quality town centre workspace.

"Whilst the delays are frustrating I’m pleased to see that the building will be open in the Summer. I want to thank Cllr Louis Gardner for his help on this. It means a lot for Penzance’s regeneration plans.”

The process to appoint an organisation to manage the Creative Cluster building will start in November with an operator expected to be in place in early 2024. In the meantime, anyone interested in being located in the building should contact info@choosecornwall.co.uk