A £300,000 fit-out project is under way at a new innovation centre in Southampton.

Created on an open-plan floor at Ocean Village Innovation Centre in Ocean Way, the fit-out is aimed at providing the right environment to nurture new, high-growth companies.

UK innovation centres specialist Oxford Innovation was awarded the contract to manage the new premises.

The focus is on attracting research and development, technology and knowledge-based industries.

Boss Chris Allington, said: “This is a substantial investment which reflects our belief that the demand is out there for the kind of first-class facilities and business support the company is renowned for providing.

“We’ve been inundated with enquiries from potential occupiers since being awarded the contract in the summer, with a steady stream of viewings, and we are confident the outlay will reap dividends by bringing much-needed high-value jobs to Southampton.”

The fit-out involves creating business suites, a reception, hired meeting and conference space, including video conferencing and interactive boards.

Work is due to be completed by the end of the month with the opening on Friday, December 10.

Stephen Brownlie has been appointed as the senior centre manager for the 30,000 square foot premises.

It is to be run along similar lines to the Portsmouth Technopole.

Occupancy rates there have doubled to 90 per cent within 12 months, with 150 people working for 42 diverse businesses.

Engineering and environmental consultancy Gifford, based in Southampton, is project-managing Ocean Village Innovation Centre’s refit and Hampshire Interiors, in Woolston, is carrying out the work.

Oxford Innovation said it will look to build a business community within the centre so occupiers can support each other through networking and other events, as well as trading services.

The firm is hoping to attract specialists in the field of the internet, product design, digital mapping, oceanography, security, biotechnology, navigational systems, electronics and biometrics, as well as business support organisations.