A £4.6 million gaming and education hub has officially opened its doors within a Grade II-listed building in Whitehaven, marking a significant milestone for the Cumbrian town. Situated in the former Whittles building on Duke Street, the facility, named Levels, offers state-of-the-art e-sports setups, a flight simulator, and a versatile studio space.
The initiative aims to enhance digital skills and retain young talent in the area. “It’s about providing not just entertainment, but an engagement with tech around awareness with digital skills [and] career pathways,” explained Ian Irving, managing director of Levels.
Transforming Whitehaven’s Landscape
The Levels project represents a collaborative effort to breathe new life into a historic structure that had been vacant for years. Michael Pemberton of British Energy Coast (BEC), a key partner in the development, emphasized the hub’s inclusive nature. “If young people want to come along and have a play, they absolutely can,” he noted. “But the reason for this facility’s existence is to be able to take young people and skill them in what needs to be in place for the future and to retain young people in this area.”
Gemma Leadbetter, director of Levels, described the building’s transformation as “transformational” for Whitehaven. “The building’s been in decline for properly 20 years and it’s been a real challenge from a development point of view, but I think what we’ve done in terms of the facelift of this building is really transformational for the town,” she said.
Educational Opportunities and Community Impact
The hub is not only a gaming paradise but also an educational resource. Schools can integrate visits to Levels into their curriculum, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge technology. This hands-on experience is designed to align with national educational standards, providing a practical complement to traditional classroom learning.
Levels’ strategic location on Duke Street ensures high visibility. “This is in a very high-visibility spot here. There’s not a vehicle that can drive through Whitehaven that doesn’t pass this,” Leadbetter remarked, highlighting the hub’s potential to become a landmark destination.
Looking Forward: A Model for Other Towns?
The success of Levels in Whitehaven could serve as a model for similar projects in other towns facing economic and social challenges. By repurposing historic buildings and focusing on digital skills development, communities can create vibrant spaces that attract and retain young people.
As digital technology continues to evolve, initiatives like Levels are crucial in preparing the next generation for future job markets. The hub’s opening is a testament to what can be achieved through innovative thinking and community collaboration.
With its doors now open, Levels is poised to become a cornerstone of Whitehaven’s digital and educational landscape, offering a glimpse of the future while honoring the town’s rich past.
