A new creative space has officially opened its doors in the heart of Huyton Village Centre.
The former Boots unit at 47-49 Derby Road has become a ‘maker space’ location in the Village Centre, providing a collaborative space for making, learning, exploring and sharing.
The space, which was previously the Mayfair Cinema, was officially opened by Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council and Cllr Tony Brennan, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Economic Development.
Make CIC, the creative, digital and maker community operators for the 7,000 sq ft space, also operate a second creative space on 22 Derby Road (next to Joe’s stall), used as a ‘pop-up’ retail and community space, showcasing and supporting ‘makers’ to take their first step into making and selling outside of the home.
The former Boots unit was acquired by Knowsley Council last year as part of the exciting ten-year development plan for Huyton Village Centre.
Make CIC will offer flexible workspace for the regions creative industries with St Helens-based arts organisation Heart of Glass as the anchor tenant.
The project has been supported by an allocation from the Liverpool City Region Metro Mayor’s Town Centre Fund.
Cllr Graham Morgan, Leader of Knowsley Council, said: “Derby Road has already benefited from significant investment through the Shopfront Improvement Scheme, which has attracted new food and drink outlets and created an emerging night-time economy. Our 10-year development plans for Huyton Village Centre include the creation of a new commercial district, a village green, a station gateway and a distinctive streetscape scheme on Derby Road. I’m delighted to welcome Make CIC to Huyton. The new creative, digital and maker space will provide new opportunities, help showcase talent and enhance and diversify the offer in the Village Centre.”
Liam Kelly, CEO of Make CIC, said:
“We’re really excited to be opening the project right on the high street. The former Boots store is the perfect place for the project and will really maximise the impact the project can have. Make Huyton Village will offer affordable workspace for people to set-up and grow their creative, digital and maker practice. From hobbyist to full-time entrepreneur, people who join the Make CIC community will be able to use the facilities and access support and advice, right in the town centre. We’re excited to invite you all to join in!
If you’re interested in knowing more, either pop in if you see us open, or email us for a chat at hello@makecic.org”