Construction work is shortly to begin on a £1.9 million community centre with a focus on growing new businesses in Helston, Cornwall.

With demolition works on the town's derelict Old Cattle Market buildings now complete, the area is clear for building works to begin on May 16.

Social enterprise South Kerrier Alliance Community Interest Company has raised funds from local, regional, national and European sources – to develop a new community hall.

It will provide first-floor office and desk space for rent, with the aim of incubating start-up businesses.

The planned business hub can be reconfigured into additional space for growing businesses, but is primarily intended as an 'easy in, easy out' hotdesk solution for local businesses.

On the building's ground floor, accommodation for Adult Care and Support will also be provided, alongside a community hall anticipated to hold regular farmers' markets and local social events.

Planning permission for the new building, designed by RLT Architects of Penzance, was granted in April 2009. SKA appointed Mansell as main contractor for the project.

It has been part financed with £538,393 from the European Regional Development Fund Convergence programme. A further £626,000 has come from the European Agricultural Fund, which backs West Cornwall Local Action Group, which is also supporting the project.

The Community Builders fund has provided £598,723, through the London-based Social Investment Business. Additional support has also been given by Cornwall Council.