THE second of Devon's Work Hub projects is now up and running thanks to the business community in Tavistock and a £20,000 grant from Devon County Council.

The Tavistock Enterprise Hub has begun phase one of its opening which sees 176 square metres of office, meeting and conference space open, along with a kitchen-cum-rest area.

The second phase – a further 140 square metres of floor space – is on track to open in February 2013. This will include a substantial open plan office area and three further self-contained offices.

A comprehensive package of chargeable and free facilities and resources will be on offer, including WiFi, networking opportunities, mentoring schemes and seminars.

The idea of the work hub is to provide a suitable office environment for those who may work from home or who need a professional area to run their business.

The hubs make smart use of space, serving more businesses than a traditional office by allowing people to book a 'hot desk' closer to home as and when they need it.

Devon County Council's cabinet member for economy and enterprise, Will Mumford said: 'This is the second facility of this kind for Devon, following the successful launch of the Totnes Work Hub last week.

'More are planned for the county, which will eventually result in a Devon network of hubs all providing work-space for the many self-employed, home workers and small start-up businesses which are so prevalent in Devon.

'I congratulate all those involved in this latest venture and wish them the best for the future.'

Taking over two floors of the Pearl Assurance building on Brook Street in the centre of Tavistock, the enterprise hub will offer space and opportunities to meet, share and develop small businesses at the heart of the town

Tavistock Enterprise Hub manager Adam Fleet said: 'We want to create a dynamic and inspiring workspace.

'Excitingly, Tavistock Enterprise Hub will be defined by the people who join the community. We want to focus on young entrepreneurs.

'With several schemes in the offing, we are working with partners to develop some incredibly exciting opportunities for the youth of the Tavistock area. There is some amazing talent out there and we want to develop it.'

Tavistock's county councillor Debo Sellis said: 'Clearly, any initiative which creates employment and enhances our market town is to be encouraged and I wish the Tavistock Enterprise every success.'