Google closes its Digital Garage in Sheffield after one year in business

The facility was launched in April 2017 in Barker's Pool to help individuals and businesses tune up their computer skills free of charge.

Alina Dimofte, head of Digital Skills Policy at Google UK, said: “Since the opening of the Sheffield Google Digital Garage back in April, we’ve helped thousands of local people, from all walks of life, learn essential digital skills.

“We’ve helped young people looking to upskill and be able to apply for more and better jobs as well as experienced workers looking to make a change in their careers.

"We’ve even welcomed two centenarians who wanted to take their first steps online and who’ve sent their first email from the Garage!

“We were also impressed by the fantastic innovation and entrepreneurial spirit the city has to offer and helped many local business owners learn how to navigate the digital world more effectively, grow their customer base and boost their bottom lines.”

Other cities, including Birmingham, Cardiff, Glasgow and Manchester, have hosted Google Digital Garages, but Sheffield was the first city to host one for a full year.

Despite its closure, the Digital Garage legacy project is still running with the Job Centres and Princes Trust in Sheffield.

“Sheffield was the first Garage actually on the high street and the results have been really amazing,” said Ms Dimofte.

“Given its unique high-street location, the Sheffield Garage has been a tremendous success and we’re thrilled to boost investment and keep it open for a full year – a first for us since starting the programme over two years ago."