City Hall bosses hope a new £3.7m digital hub will make Norwich a "creative powerhouse" on the world stage.

The view was expressed by the leader of Norwich City Council, Mike Stonard, as he toured Townshend House which is currently undergoing refurbishment.

Workers are "moving at pace" to complete the project ahead of a spring opening date.

Townshend House is being completely renovated to provide private offices, meeting rooms and creative spaces for up to 200 peopleTownshend House is being completely renovated to provide private offices, meeting rooms and creative spaces for up to 200 people (Image: Newsquest) Mr Stonard said: "Things are really shaping up here and I am looking forward to seeing Townshend House become the city's digital hub.

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"It really will be a major milestone in our mission to make Norwich a digital and creative powerhouse.

"It's all part of our plans to make a more prosperous Norwich and fit for the future."

Norwich City Council leader Mike Stonard visited the building as work continues at paceNorwich City Council leader Mike Stonard visited the building as work continues at pace (Image: Norwich City Council) The scheme aims to provide new offices for start-up tech businesses that could facilitate up to 25 companies and bring in 200 jobs. 

Local growth minister Alex Norris said: "It's another step forward in making the city centre a destination for the tech and creative industry.

"It is vital our communities keep creating innovative flexible new spaces like this to attract new start-ups and investors to the area and help local people to fully embrace the jobs of the future."

Townshend House was once home to the regional headquarters of ITV, based opposite Norwich Castle.