WIRRAL'S former Pacific Roads Arts Centre has been transformed into a state-of-the-art business hub.

Wirral Chamber of Commerce secured planning permission to convert the Grade II-listed building into office and retail space for "knowledge economy" firms in 2013, taking out a long-term tenancy agreement of the council-owned building.

Refit work began in February and the hub was officially opened by mayor Les Rowlands during a ceremony on Wednesday.

Existing offices that have 'shop fronts' have been upgraded, whilst new offices on the first and second floor have been created.

It offers 16,000 sq ft of Grade A offices providing opportunities for around 17 businesses and able to house around 200 people.

Paula Basnett, chief executive of Wirral Chamber of Commerce said during the opening ceremony: "Since we started work on the building we have had a number of enquiries from companies very keen to move into Pacific Road.

"I have no doubts that it will enhance not only Wirral’s offer to support and develop both new and existing businesses.

"This project has been a great example of the positive partnership which has been developed between Wirral Chamber of Commerce and Wirral Council, both working together to create the right environment for our expanding business community."

Council leader Phil Davies said: "We continue to promote Wirral as a place where employers want to invest and businesses thrive.

"Our 2020 Vision goals include supporting 250 new businesses over the coming five years, and Pacific Road will help achieve that ambition.

"Last year, Wirral Chamber of Commerce supported the creation of nearly 1,000 new jobs and attracted more than £25million in investment into our economy, so are to be congratulated for their ongoing work in attracting new investment as well as providing support to small businesses already active in the borough." 

Originally built in the 19th century as a maritime trade storage site, Pacific Road became a tram museum and then an arts and live entertainment centre.

It became the principal venue for the acclaimed Wirral International Guitar Festival - now staged at the Floral Pavilion in New Brighton - attracting music fans from across the country and overseas.

But its future was thrown into doubt in 2010 when it was declared "surplus to requirements" by the council and it closed a year later.

KGB Music, an established guitar-repair firm based in the centre, will stay on the site as part of the development.

Sandra Kirkham is managing director of training company, Progress to Excellence said, who will take up permanent residence in the hub.

She said: "Progress to Excellence is recognised nationally as one of the leading specialist training providers in supporting adult learners in health and social care and business sectors.

“As such, we are continuing to grow and, when the opportunity for new office space at Pacific Road was presented, it was a logical move for us to make in the next phase of our group development.

“Wirral Chamber of Commerce is to be commended for its vision in creating a location for fast growing businesses such as ourselves and we are proud that our National Group HQ is based in Birkenhead."

The Pacific Road Business Hub project is part financed by the North West Operational Programme – Merseyside European Regional Development Fund Programme 2007 to 2013.