4th March 2026
iSH’s Digital Cumbria cluster recently delivered a collaborative showcase event with LEVELS, bringing together organisations and digital leaders from across the region for an immersive day of learning, collaboration and hands-on innovation.
Hosted at LEVELS in Whitehaven, attendees experienced the centre’s state-of-the-art facilities first-hand, from high-intensity VR racing to free-roam simulations and interactive digital learning environments.
The event demonstrated how immersive technologies are being used not just for engagement, but to enhance skills development and strengthen future-focused digital capability across Cumbria.
LEVELS is a cutting-edge £4.1 million Digital & Gaming Hub created through the transformation of the landmark former Whittles Building in the heart of Whitehaven.
Acquired by BEC in 2021, the historic Grade II listed building has been carefully restored – preserving its iconic Italianate façade and interiors – and reopened in January 2026 as a modern hub for the region’s creative and digital generation.
Spanning three floors, the facility features esports and VR zones, recording studios, a fully immersive education and learning suite, and a café space designed to encourage collaboration and community engagement.
Through strategic partnerships with VR Gateway, Sellafield Ltd, BT, ATOS and others, LEVELS is more than a physical space. It is designed to unlock new pathways into digital skills, inspire career ambitions and deliver long-term social impact across West Cumbria.
Beyond the technology itself, the day provided valuable opportunities for networking and knowledge sharing. The programme concluded with the Digital Cumbria Member Meeting, where partners reviewed progress on a county-wide initiative designed to build digital skills and support long-term workforce development.
Hannah Pears, Skills Lead at iSH and Director of LEVELS, said: “LEVELS is about far more than just technology it is creating real opportunities to inspire, upskill and show the next generation that a future in a digital career is within their grasp.
“Digital skills will be critical to Cumbria’s economy for the foreseeable future and by giving people hands-on access to immersive technology and industry-relevant training, we are helping ensure that local talent is ready for those opportunities.”
The event highlighted the strength of partnership across the region, with thanks extended to Gemma Leadbetter at BEC, Ian Irving from VR Gateway and the LEVELS Whitehaven team for hosting and to OneAIM JV for sponsoring the business networking lunch.
A strong example of collaboration in action, the event reinforced a shared commitment to strengthening Cumbria’s digital landscape and creating new opportunities for innovation and sustainable growth.