A ‘thriving’ community building in the centre of Weston could be transformed into a ‘hub’ for creative businesses if it is bought by North Somerset Council.

The Mercury understands the council is in talks to buy the Badger Centre, in Wadham Street, as part of its wider plans to regenerate the town centre.

If the purchase goes ahead, the authority plans to use the centre as a base for its new creative hub, which will offer workspaces and support for start-up businesses in the creative sector.

The council said it is working alongside the Quartet Community Foundation – a Bristol charity which offers philanthropic advice to community projects and groups – to further its aims.

A council spokesman said: “In recent years the Badger Centre has developed into a vibrant community facility and any proposals for its future use will reflect its role as a thriving hub of community activity right in the town centre.”

The Badger Centre is currently used by a range of organisations, including the Citizens’ Advice Bureau. However, the council has promised to work alongside organisations which lease space at the centre to minimise the impact of the purchase of the building. It also said the timescale for the building’s purchase is unknown.

Councillor Richard Nightingale, whose Central ward includes the Badger Centre, said it was important for the council to lead by example in terms of investing in Weston.

Cllr Nightingale said: “The potential purchase of the Badger Centre as a new town centre hub is a vote of confidence in the area and an important sign to others that Weston is well and truly open for business.”