WP3966 - Bloxwich Launchpad - AWARD

As part of the Government's £3.6 billion Towns Fund, Walsall Council was awarded £47 million of which £23.5 million was allocated to Bloxwich. With an aim of transforming the economic prospects of the town, a key focus is the improvement of broadband connectivity, and the development of digital skills and higher value jobs.

The proposal is for the creation of an incubation space and digital access centre on Bloxwich high street, supporting startups and small businesses whilst offering digital connectivity and training for the community.

The building known as "Bloxwich Launchpad" will accommodate a number of spaces that facilitate digital connectivity, collaboration and where the local community can inspire one another. This site has been identified as having a good location in the town centre, adjacent the Bloxwich library site, with good accessibility via public transport. The site has a high footfall due to the proximity to the market square, which runs on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday.

The project includes an overall renovation, involving both general refurbishment and alterations to the existing two-storey space. This comprises demolishing existing internal partitions and constructing new.

As part of the building's redevelopment, works also entail constructing a new two-storey extension, extending the first floor to the frontage, installing a new passenger lift, PVs and plant to the roof.

Bloxwich Launchpad will bring together a range of services from different organisations, including skills workshops, social groups, employment, and health.

The facility will offer training and learning space, meeting rooms and small conference facilities. The hub will also be digitally enabled to provide residents with support in the use of technology, offering advice and guidance on digital devices, and delivering practical skills for using common applications and e-commerce applications, through small group classes and learning journeys, provided by local training providers and voluntary sector partners. Partners will utilise facilities for engagement activity/clinics and event activities. Incubation space will be provided for small start-up activity including business support. The venue will also provide a space in which to promote and support volunteering opportunities.

Additional works - Bloxwich Theatre

The option to convert the current theatre space adjacent to the Bloxwich Library into a Creative Industry 'Make a Space' centre is currently being pursued by the Council. Outline designs and provisional costs have been drawn up and a bid for around £750k has been submitted for External Funding.

Due to the uncertain and unsecured funding position at this time, the contract for the Bloxwich Launchpad will be awarded initially.

However, subject to securing the subsequent fun...