National coworking firm Patch is opening at The Forum development in Gloucester this winter – and it has big plans for the city's workforce.
The Forum's second tenant has claimed 17,000 sq ft of space to launch the company's flagship destination, joining its six other sites in Bournemouth, Chelmsford, High Wycombe, Twickenham and York.
It will also be its first base to be situated within a new build commercial development.
With aims to 'reimagine how we work and connect', Patch Gloucester will offer office and event space for both one-off events and short- or long-term rentable space to individuals and teams, forging possibilities for professionals to meet other like-minded people, with a mission to 'boost Gloucester's entrepreneurial ecosystem'.
There will be capacity to host more than 100 businesses and 500 members, within private offices, stylish coworking studios, dedicated desks and members' lounges, as well as meeting rooms and productions studios available for the public to book.
A certified B-Corp, Patch hopes to give back to the community by hosting events and driving initiatives, making it a great addition to The Forum, which has a BREEAM Excellent rating, is a net zero carbon operation and boasts the largest living wall in the south west.
Freddie Fforde, founder of Patch, said: 'Gloucester is fast becoming one of the UK’s most exciting places to start and grow a business. With its thriving startup ecosystem, strong university links and a creative energy deeply rooted in the city’s character, it’s full of momentum.
'At Patch, we want to help that energy flourish. We’re creating a welcoming city-centre space where local people, ambitious founders, community projects, and bold ideas can come together, collaborate and thrive.'
The £107 million Forum mix-used development, delivered by Gloucester City Council with developers Reef + Partners, plans to offer 135,000 sq ft of Grade A office space; alongside a boutique hotel; a 393-space car park with over 40 electric vehicle charging points; residential apartments and retail space.
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, said: 'We’re delighted to welcome Patch to Gloucester. Along with current tenants Fasthosts they share our vision for the city and see its massive potential to grow and attract talent.
'With the opening of the university city campus, the ongoing completion of the Forum and huge amounts of continuing regeneration of the city, this is a very exciting time for Gloucester.'
