Construction has begun on Redditch's Innovation Centre following an official groundbreaking ceremony. The £16.6m project, funded through the Government's Towns Fund programme, is expected to open in Spring 2028.
The new 2,600m² building will provide a flexible mix of office, laboratory, and workshop space, alongside meeting facilities, networking areas, and a café. It is designed to support innovation-led businesses, particularly within the digital manufacturing sector, and will offer access to specialist support services and foster collaboration between businesses.
Council backing and partnership
Redditch Borough Council Leader Cllr. Matt Dormer said the groundbreaking marked "an exciting new chapter for Redditch" and demonstrated the council's commitment to "creating opportunities for local businesses, attracting investment, and ensuring our town remains at the forefront of innovation and economic growth."
Construction partner Speller Metcalfe is delivering the project. Divisional Director Mark Hudgeon said the contractor was "delighted to have broken ground" and proud to be "delivering a project that will support business growth, create opportunities and make a lasting contribution to the town."
Town Deal support
The Innovation Centre forms a key part of Redditch's Town Deal programme. Chair of the Redditch Town Deal Board Brian Davy described it as "one of the most significant projects within the Town Deal programme" and said the board had "worked closely with partners over a number of years to help shape the vision, provide strategic guidance, and support the development of projects that will have a lasting impact on the town."
Davy added that seeing the Innovation Centre "move into the delivery phase and become a reality" would "help strengthen Redditch's reputation as a destination for innovation, advanced manufacturing and emerging technologies."
Local education opportunities
The Council will work with construction partner Speller Metcalfe and local education partners to create opportunities for local students to engage with the project and gain insight into careers in construction and the built environment as the project progresses.
For more information, visit the Redditch Town Deal website at https://www.redditchtowndeal.co.uk/regeneration-projects/redditch-innovation-centre/