A FORMER Worcester police station is set to become a creative and technology hub for new businesses.

The Copenhagen Street-based former station is to be renovated and transformed through £255,000 funding from Worcester City Council and the Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP).

The new hub, being called the Kiln, will be based in the oldest of the two former police stations, which was once the headquarters for the city force.

The site is to be turned into a business hub and co-working space for tech entrepreneurs and business start-ups.

It is to be an open-plan office space with desks. some enclosed office areas, and wifi for users.

Work is set to begin in the spring and be finished in time for a summer opening.

Ahead of it opening, the Worcestershire County Council and Worcestershire LEP innovation programme (WINN) has supported the creation on the Kiln co-working group, which launched at The Hive on Friday.

The group, open to business representatives, will be based in the Glass Room of The Hive every Friday.

Hamish Gill, director of Worcester-based F8 Creates creative services agency, who is part of the community project, said: "We asked businesses and individuals what they wanted, and they said - desks, good wifi and good coffee - so we have planned this co-working space to meet the needs of the people who will be using it."

Councillor Geoff Williams, vice chairman of Worcester City Councils’ place and economic development sub-committee, said: "Worcester City Council has been working hard for many months to make The Kiln a reality and when our premises in Copenhagen Street became vacant, we decided it would be ideal for this project."

"The Kiln very much fits in with our city plan objectives of ensuring Worcester is a prosperous city with stronger and connected communities."

Gary Woodman, chief executive of Worcester LEP, said: “We are delighted to be able to invest in The Kiln as a new and exciting location for digital and creative companies.

"The space will bring together a range of entrepreneurs, freelancers and tech-minded experts – enabling collaboration and sharing of ideas, and acting as a seedbed for new and emerging businesses."

“Projects such as The Kiln will only help to strengthen the county’s reputation as a UK tech hotspot.”

Jessica Antley, senior project manager at WINN, said: "The digital sector is taking off in Worcester, and there is a drive and commitment to create a business environment that supports digital innovation in the county’s key areas of excellence.

"Kiln members will benefit from the flexibility and freedom to build their businesses and develop their products how and when they want, with the consistent support of a community of like-minded people."

Councillor Ken Pollock, Worcestershire County Council cabinet member with responsibility for economy and infrastructure, added: “Whether it’s helping founders getting started or helping more established businesses grow, the Kiln will provide an inspirational practical working space."