BUILDERS have picked up their tools to start work on a £8m centre which will create 100 new jobs.

The new East Thamesmead Innovation Centre, in Waldrist Way, Erith, will provide 70 spaces for entrepreneurs to start up small businesses.

Support will be given to new companies based on business planning, finance and technology by council advisors.

Cabinet member for town centres, industry and regeneration, Councillor Margaret O'Neill, kicked off the building work at a ceremony at the site on November 9.

The centre, which is due for completion in February 2007, has been funded by grants from the EU Development Fund and the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister.

It is the first phase of work on the 40-acre plot, which will become an area of commerce.