Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough, Dr. Nik Johnson to Officially Open New Social Enterprise Hub

February 4, 2025

The highly anticipated opening of The Printworks at Papworth took place on the 30th January 2025, with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Dr. Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough. Operated by Function 5 CIC, this dynamic new social enterprise hub marks a major milestone for the village of Papworth Everard.

The Printworks has been transformed into a vibrant community space featuring a café, microbrewery, and pizzeria, providing a lively social hub for residents. It also offers a dedicated workspace for social entrepreneurs and small businesses, with facilities such as meeting rooms and collaboration spaces.

Supporting Local Social Enterprise and Community

Developed by Allia with the support of £600,000 in grant funding from the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough Combined Authority’s (CPCA) Market Towns programme, the project aims to boost social entrepreneurship and strengthen the local economy. The grant, awarded through Social Enterprise East of England (SEEE), underscores the region’s commitment to grassroots development and sustainable community growth.

This project is also part-funded (£32,555) by the UK government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund provided by the South Cambridgeshire District Council (SCDC).

David Broach, Director of Allia Future Business Centres, said:
“The Printworks represents a new beginning for Papworth Everard, offering opportunities for local entrepreneurs and social enterprises to thrive. We are honoured to have Mayor Dr. Nik Johnson officially open the space, marking the start of this exciting journey.”

It is an honour to officially open The Printworks Social Enterprise Hub. This building is a shining example of how people-focused initiatives can transform our market towns and rural communities, fostering resilience and sustainable growth.”

Dr. Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough

Honouring History, Building for the Future

The Printworks, originally built in 1929, was once used by the Papworth Trust to provide therapeutic employment for recovering TB patients. Following its closure in the mid-1990s, the building has stood as a symbol of the community’s history. Its revitalization reconnects the past with a promising future for local residents and businesses.

Deb Lee, Managing Director of SEEE, commented:

“We are thrilled to see The Printworks become a reality. This project demonstrates how the power of social enterprise can create lasting change that strengthens communities.”

Millie Calver, Co-Director, Function 5 CIC, commented:

“We are thrilled to take on the operation of The Printworks and bring this incredible vision to life. Our goal is to create a welcoming and vibrant space where the community can gather, connect, and thrive, while also providing the support and resources social enterprises need to succeed. The Printworks will be more than just a hub for business—it will be the heart of Papworth Everard’s community life.”

The official opening ceremony included speeches from Tim Jones (Chairman of Allia Group), David Broach (Director of Allia Future Business Centres), Millie Calver (Co Director of Function 5, CIC) and Dr. Nik Johnson, Mayor of Cambridgeshire & Peterborough. Guests were able to sample food and drink along with a tour of the newly refurbished facilities.

For further details about The Printworks and Function 5 CIC, www.function5cic.co.uk.