From Abandoned Furniture Store to Cutting-Edge Gaming Center

A £4.6 million gaming and education complex called 'LEVELS' has opened in Whitehaven, Cumbria. Located on Duke Street, the facility has transformed a former Whittles furniture store into a four-story venue, now recognized as the region's largest technology hub.

LEVELS is led by social impact property developer BEC, with joint funding from Sellafield Ltd, BT, and BEC. Sellafield invested £3.3 million through its SiX (Social Impact Multiplied) program, while BT contributed £800,000 and BEC added £500,000.

From Esports Arena to VR Experiences

LEVELS spans four floors with diverse facilities. Key features include an esports arena, immersive digital and gaming experiences, VR headset zones, a café, and interactive learning spaces. The top floor preserves the building's original staircase, maintaining its historical value.

The facility targets youth, families, and educators, focusing on raising interest in digital, technology, and creative career paths. LEVELS has already employed 15 young people and plans to host events for esports athletes starting the day after opening.

"Designed by Young People, Built by Young People"

BEC CEO Michael Pemberton stated at the opening ceremony that "this project has been **community-led from the start," adding that "we listened directly to what young people wanted and integrated their ideas into reality." He emphasized that "we reimagined this old building to present it in this form today" and "this facility is the result of what young people imagined and led."

Pemberton noted that "we are continuously driving change," explaining that "we're creating the change the Whitehaven community deserves, little by little, one step at a time." He stated the goal is "to create something that keeps residents here and engages their interest."

BEC COO Gemma Leadbetter reflected that "it feels quite surreal to welcome people here today" and "it's been a long journey." She added that "it will probably feel more real tomorrow when we host the event for esports athletes" and expressed anticipation for "how this facility will develop."

A Core Hub for Regional Regeneration

LEVELS is expected to play a central role in Whitehaven's urban regeneration project. Sellafield has invested millions of pounds in Whitehaven's town center through its social impact partnership with BEC, including The Edge and bus stops, with LEVELS being the latest achievement.

Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) Socio-Economic Director Jamie Reed praised it as "the latest result of Sellafield's multi-million pound investment with BEC in Whitehaven town center," noting that "not only has the building been restored to its former glory, but it provides services created in collaboration with local young people."

LEVELS stands as one of Cumbria's largest technology-related facilities, expected to provide practical opportunities for local youth in digital skills education and entry into the esports industry.