The Sheffield Digital Campus is beginning to take shape.

Steelworks are coming out of the ground for the first of five buildings near the rail station that will create a hub for the digital, e-learning and creative businesses.

The 5,000 square metre Electric Works digital media centre is due to open by autumn 2008, managed by Manchester-based Creative Space Management.

Brendan Moffett, marketing director of city development company Creative Sheffield, says: "Electric Works will play a key role in attracting high growth businesses to Sheffield and CSM has the innovative approach that will bring in creative and forward-thinking companies."

CSM MD Toby Hyam said: "Electric Works is going to be a creative, energetic and inspiring place to work. CSM specialises in managing space for the creative and digital industries sector and we are confident that Electric Works and Sheffield Digital Campus will become one of the leading locations in the UK for this sector.

"CSM works with the creative enterprises to create an exciting and contemporary working environment. We provide networking events and business seminars, advanced IT service and a help the development of a like-minded community of businesses and entrepreneurs."

The 5,000 square metre building is designed by Carey Jones Architects and will provide studio and workspace for up to 450 people as well as a conference venue for up to 150 people.

CSM won the management contract against national competition and also manages Round Foundry Media Centre in Leeds and has a number of other projects in development across the UK.

Sheffield Digital Campus, the new name for the former e-campus, is being developed jointly by Scarborough Development Group and GMI Property Company. It will spread along Sheaf Street and eventually occupy the sites of the old Sheaf House and Dyson House, the tower blocks that were demolished next to the station.