A COMMUNITY hub is available for small businesses and entrepreneurs to work in the city.

The Kiln, a collaborative community to help entrepreneurs and lone workers, is a space to work and provides hot desking for over 60 people.

It has undergone building and renovation work, creating a modern and practical space for professionals to use as their base, share ideas and network with likeminded people.

The launch of The Kiln, which is based in in Copenhagen Street, was proven successful following The Kiln 0.5, which was a smaller scale, temporary hub based in The Guildhall.

It proved popular, having over 20 self-employed people using the space.

It has been backed by Worcester City Council, which has invested £400,000 in the initiative, and Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership, which has provided £195,000 towards refurbishment via the Government’s Local Growth Fund.

Jess Antley, from Worcestershire Innovation Network (WINN), has played a key part in making The Kiln a reality.

She said: “The team here at WINN have thoroughly enjoyed working with the team from The Kiln, and we are very excited to continue our work together and to start helping the region’s entrepreneurs bring their ideas to life through our networking and business support programmes.”

Councillor Adrian Gregson said: “We’re passionate about driving economic growth and exciting innovation within the region. The Kiln aligns perfectly with this vision.”

Gary Woodman, chief executive of Worcestershire Local Enterprise Partnership added: “The Kiln represents fantastic progress in making the County a place of entrepreneurialism and growth and we are looking forward to welcoming freelancers and business owners of all kinds.”

With the new launch, which took place on August 30, entrepreneurs can benefit from a flexible way of working, unlimited tea and coffee, event space and a range of meeting rooms on offer and free wi-fi is available.