The first images have been released showing how a multi-million pound transformation of a shopping centre’s first floor into a co-working space could look.

Work is set to get underway to turn half of the upper floor of the Pentagon in Chatham into an “Innovation Hub” next month.

The project, to be called Ascend, will see part of the complex made into a mixed co-working and private office space with high-speed broadband and meeting rooms, as well as access to free business support and networking opportunities.

Construction is due to begin in April after the designs were approved at a planning meeting in February.

The work will be done by Form Fit Out, a London-based office-space specialist, and once completed, will be run by Edgility Properties Ltd, in partnership with Kiln, who will be responsible for managing bookings and the facilities on a day-to-day basis.

The hub is being funded through the Future High Streets Fund, a government initiative for regenerating high streets to protect and create jobs, investment from Medway Council, and funding the South-East Local Enterprise Partnership (SELEP).

It was awarded £1.8m towards its delivery.

The development will share the first floor with the planned healthy living centre which is also planned there and was allocated £1.25m in funding in January also.

Cllr Lauren Edwards, Medway Council’s portfolio holder for economic and social regeneration and inward investment, said the beginning of construction was an important milestone in creating opportunities for businesses in the Towns.

She said: “This important project will give Medway’s small businesses, freelancers and entrepreneurs room to grow, increase productivity and unlock their potential.

“Being able to deliver this project in the heart of Chatham is great for the area as a whole, with the knock-on benefit of increased footfall in The Pentagon Shopping Centre and surrounding area.

“I look forward to seeing this new and exciting workspace take shape.”

Businesses can make enquiries about using the space here.

The council anticipates the work to be completed in time for the hub’s opening in Autumn.