Lampeter’s Canolfan Dulais Centre is poised to be transformed into a new social enterprise centre supporting small businesses and local charities thanks to almost £3m of Welsh Government and EU funding, it was announced on Friday.

The Tai Ceredigion Housing Association will benefit from £1.5m of Welsh Government Targeted Regeneration Funding plus £1.1m of EU funding to help to create what is being described as ‘high quality’ office space.

Under the plans the existing centre will make way for purpose-built 1,250 sq m two-storey enterprise hub and social premises, housing up to 15 SMEs and charities.

It is expected to create 20 new jobs for trainers, mentors and support staff, and target existing Tai Ceredigion tenants looking to start or grow businesses.

Cllr Rhodri Evans, Ceredigion County Council’s Cabinet member responsible for economy and regeneration, described the move as a ‘vitally important development’ for Lampeter.

“I’m delighted that we can support the development of first class premises for start-up and growth businesses, particularly in the social care sector, which is increasingly important in our society,” he added.

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