Create Strode is a uniquely-designed Workspace Hub that will be delivered in partnership with Mendip District Council and Strode College in Street, with the aim of supporting local small-scale enterprises and encouraging strong links between business and education.

The new container-style development to the rear of the existing sports hall at Strode College will allow for the creation of serviced workspace for local businesses.

Create Strode will be available for small, start-up businesses to rent out to use as office space. This will provide local businesses with a platform to thrive early in their development which will benefit the local economy.

This project will also give students an exciting opportunity to work alongside the owners of small businesses and gain knowledge and experience of the working environment, while giving the businesses access to the innovative ideas and technological know-how of the students and the college.

The onsite café is to be constructed separately to the main Workspace Hub and will be available for all students, staff, businesses and visitors of the college to use. It is hoped that this will become a bustling hub of activity for both business and students.

Cllr Peter Goater, portfolio holder for economic development at Mendip District Council, said: "We are fortunate to have the opportunity to work in partnership with Strode College on this project that will support economic development and growth in the district.

"We will be able to encourage and enable strong links to be built between businesses and the students of Strode College.

"In addition the college is very well served by public transport and is well connected to a number of walking and cycle routes which will promote the use of sustainable travel".

Katy Quinn, principal at Strode College, said: "We are delighted to be working in partnership with Mendip District Council to bring together the business and education worlds with this exciting project Create Strode.

"Not only will it provide affordable office accommodation for local businesses, it will also enable us to match local employment opportunities with local talent.

"We anticipate our students being able to participate in placements and work experience as well as potentially apprenticeship opportunities.

"The focus on the media and digital industry is particularly important as digital skills become a pre-requisite for so many jobs of the future.

"At Strode we are leading the way in digital education and training; delivering new T levels in 2020, expanding apprenticeships and courses up to level 5."

Planning permission is currently being sought for this project and you can view all information by clicking on the red button below. The planning application is open for your comments until October 24.