Le Page Architects is progressing the design for the conversion and extending of Devonport Market Building.
Plymouth City Council, the Devonport based regeneration agency, Real Ideas Organisation (RIO) and Plymouth University have joined forces in a pioneering project that will put digital gaming into the heart of a regenerated Devonport.
Once restored, it will be home to the University’s Institute of Digital Arts (i-DAT), there will be a ‘hatchery’ for new firms, a testing ground for established companies and a unique visitor attraction.
RIO has developed a business plan for the play market which aims to entice a new generation of researchers and would-be designers from schools around the city as well as local and international students at the University looking to develop their work.
Ed Whitelaw, Lead Developer at RIO said: “This is another great example of what can be achieved with a co-operative council. Devonport has a long history of both social and technological innovation. Creating a space here for Plymouth University and i-DAT will ensure we can continue in this fine tradition of innovation, create further opportunities for people locally and ensure Devonport is better connected to the rest of the city.”
Plymouth University will look to create a digital innovation hub in the Market Hall, which will see i-DAT – an Arts Council England national portfolio organisation – working alongside internationally renowned groups in the School of Art and Media to build a world class public-facing research platform.
Professor David Coslett, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Plymouth University, said: “At Plymouth University, we take great pride in being at the heart of our community and using our expertise to inspire a spirit of enterprise and creativity across the city and region. With our partners, we are breathing new life into part of the city’s heritage, and transforming a unique space where our innovation in the digital arts can engage a new audience.”
