WORK is progressing on a multimillion pound innovation centre which will create more than 100 new jobs is underway.

The I-Construct Hub, based off Springwood Drive in Braintree it taking shape after the completion of the steel frame.

The state-of-the-art two-storey facility will consist of a workshop and demonstration spaces, a technology laboratory, conference facilities and informal meeting areas.

It will be home to a team offering business support, grant schemes and advice to firms connected to the construction industry.

Robotics, 3D printers and modelling software will all be available to businesses using the innovation centre, which will cost around £2.3million to build.

Councillor John McKee, Cabinet Member for Corporate Transformation at Braintree District Council, said: “Our investment into this innovative hub will stimulate jobs and opportunities in the construction sector as well as create the financial returns necessary to pay for our frontline services.

"Our strategic investments are designed to make life better for residents - once by the investment itself and secondly by the return on investment.”

The I-Construct hub, which is expected to open in the autumn, aims to support over 350 businesses, launch 150 new products and create up to 130 new jobs.

George Kieffer, Chairman of the Haven Gateway Partnership, said: “The construction industry is vital to our economy and quality of life and we have lost too many SME builders due to labour shortages, the financial crisis and a lack of access to new technology.

"We have been guided by industry leaders who fully recognise that it is time for the sector to modernise in order to survive. I-Construct will not only safeguard existing jobs in the construction industry, but it will also help create new jobs and solve some of the challenges facing businesses within that industry."