A project transforming a vacant building in Birkenhead into a hub for arts, culture and creativity will make a £1.6m social impact for Wirral over the next five years, it's hoped.
The Treasury Annex Building on Hamilton Square will undergo major changes led by social enterprise Make CIC, with bosses promising to turn it into a "hive of activity".
Exciting plans for the scheme include an urban farm, community garden, cafe, studios and meeting spaces.
Named Make Hamilton Square, many are hoping it will help develop Birkenhead's very own "Baltic Triangle".
It's hoped the re-development will breathe new life into the town centre, with those responsible for the success of Liverpool's Baltic Triangle behind the plans.
Make CIC co-founder and director, Kirsten Little, said: “There are so many good things happening in Birkenhead.
"We’re excited to start working with local partners to fit in and provide opportunities for the community that isn’t there yet.”
Make CIC, who offer similar workspaces in Liverpool’s Baltic Triangle and Ten Streets area , says the creative hub will provide opportunities for the local community and visitors, allowing them to attend events and classes, learning skills and crafts.
The firm says the biggest transformation will take place outside, with the revival of the currently neglected “millennium garden” into a community garden space, just off Hamilton Square.
Plans include a small urban farm with raised beds for growing vegetables, well-being space for sitting, reading, and meeting, and an outdoor courtyard for the cafe in the day and events at night.
Later this month, Make willl launch a £5,000 crowdfunding campaign for support with the initial set-up costs of reviving the garden.
The campaign #MakeHamiltonGrow will seek support to build planters, seats and even bee-hives - with the aim of creating an "urban green oasis".
There will be opportunities for people to help, learn skills and get involved over the summer.
Currently, local organisations are working with Make to create new opportunities in creative entrepreneurship, craft, making and STEM skills through educational workshops.
Make says that's paired with Wirral Council ’s ambition for greater footfall through expanding leisure and culture in the area - and the legacy of Wirral ’s year as borough of culture, taking place this year.
After conducting what's known as a social impact forecast, social thought business First Ark made the forecast that the development will make £1.6m for Wirral over the coming five years.
Liam Kelly, Make CIC co-founder and CEO, said: “Make CIC was started seven years ago in response to a period of challenging mental health for me as I found myself isolated working from home.
"We are now focused on removing barriers for people and sometimes that can be as simple as not spending all day in isolation, learning a craft or just meeting new people.”
Cllr Chris Spriggs, Wirral’s cabinet member for culture and tourism, said: “As part of the legacy of our year as Borough of Culture for Liverpool City Region, Make Hamilton Square will support creative people and businesses in Wirral in 2019 and beyond.
"It’s a promising venture which will encourage new and existing talent to flourish, increase local entrepreneurship and help creative and digital companies to grow boosting our local economy.”
