Devon Work Hubs network expanded
The award-winning Devon Work Hubs network has expanded with the opening of three new hubs across the county and expansion of a fourth.
Devon County Council secured funding from the Heart of the South West LEP Getting Building Fund last year, which has now enabled three new Work Hubs to open in Great Torrington, Newton Abbot and Teignmouth. The extension of the Tavistock Enterprise Hub is also complete.
A further two Work Hubs are due to open in Ilfracombe and High Bickington in the coming months.
There are now 19 unique and flexible coworking spaces in the Devon Work Hubs network. The hubs enable freelancers and small businesses to adopt modern working patterns, by providing access to a variety of meeting rooms, hot desks and office spaces.
Councillor Rufus Gilbert, Devon County Council Cabinet Member for Economic Recovery and Skills, said: “Devon Work Hubs provide affordable and inspiring workplaces and the success of this growing network demonstrates the County Council’s commitment to supporting local enterprise. With hubs spread throughout Devon, the network is helping to stimulate those coastal and rural economies hardest hit by the pandemic, while also playing a part in tackling carbon emissions by reducing the need to travel long distances.”
Karl Tucker, Chair of the Heart of the South West Local Enterprise Partnership, said: “Devon Work Hubs offer a much-needed flexible working space to support small businesses and those who are self-employed. We are delighted to support the project through our Getting Building Fund, which aims to boost economic growth, and fuel local recovery and jobs. These new Work Hubs will open up fantastic opportunities across Devon, and we are delighted to continue to support local enterprise in the area.”
Councillor Andrew Saywell, Devon County Councillor for Torrington Rural, said: “This is a real asset for Great Torrington and it's great that our rural market town is now part of the Devon Work Hubs network. Work Hubs can make a huge difference in providing small local businesses and entrepreneurs with the facilities and space to grow, which in turn can help to generate and retain jobs in our area.”
Councillor David Cox, County Councillor for Teignmouth, said: "I’m sure this new facility will help Teignmouth people develop skills and competences."
Councillor Debo Sellis, County Councillor for Tavistock, said: “I am fully committed to supporting local employment opportunities. I am glad that the HUB has been and will continue to be a useful stepping-stone for local residents and businesses.”
Councillor Phil Bullivant, County Councillor for Newton Abbot North, said: “The new Work Hub in the centre of Newton Abbot will help people develop their skills and enhance their opportunities to improve their job prospects. As Newton Abbot has two of the most economically deprived areas in Devon it is essential that we provide people with the support and training they need. This new facility will help deliver this key requirement for local residents.”
Devon Work Hubs has also announced the launch of its new website which provides details of the choice of offices, workspaces, meeting rooms and solo desks available at convenient locations across the county.
For more information visit https://devonworkhubs.co.uk/
