Council CEO Susan Law confirmed council would immediately convene a steering group of business people to oversee the Hub's formation.

"What came out of council's Business Symposium Breakfast held on July 24, was that the businesses in the Armidale Region want to have somewhere that they can network, hold meetings, do a bit of work and have access to really good broadband," she said.

"So, we thought it would be a really good use of the old Library building if we could renovate it a little bit and locate a business hub in there.

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"We really want to create a one-stop shop. That's why I am looking at putting council regulatory services staff in there. So if somebody makes an enquiry about doing business or setting up a business here, then our planners, our building inspection people, our plumbing people are all there to be able to give that advice all in one go."

Mrs Law said she had spoken to the council staff involved and they were very keen about the concept. Council also met with the Armidale Business Chamber on Tuesday night, which readily admitted it was difficult for it to have such a space because of its lack of premises.

"They hold networking events from time-to-time, but there isn't a place where businesses can go where they can share some working space and have access to really good broadband for teleconferencing to clients across the globe," she said.

"A stronger business sector for Armidale would be a high priority goal for the Hub.

"Because we do know from research that businesses often locate to an area where there is a good supportive business environment."

Mrs Law said the Hub would also hopefully provide a space and a place for small businesses and startups.

"We are engaging with the University of New England's Smart Region Incubator, chambers of commerce and other business groups to ascertain their appetite to partner with Council," she said.

"Council will contribute funds, in collaboration with other stakeholders, to develop plans and budgets for the Hub and to develop the old library precinct.

Mayor Simon Murray said council would soon engage with business to progress other recommendations from the symposium, to ensure momentum was not lost.

"That forum demonstrated a great commitment by businesses to work together to build our region as a whole, offering the opportunity for everyone to benefit and grow," he said.

"We're looking forward to holding a similar event for businesses later this year, after last month's symposium sold out and we had many more businesses expressing an interest to attend."

Businesses or individuals interested in working with council to establish the Hub, or in using the Hub's services once it is established, can register their interest by emailing: Council's Program Leader - Grants, Economic and Business Development, Will Winter, on wwinter@armidale.nsw.gov.au

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