A former Leeds waterside casino which was converted into new modern offices is set for expansion, less than a year after its launch.
Department Leeds Dock opened as a vibrant workspace hub for creative, media, tech and digital businesses at the start of the year, after developers turned the building into a place to work and socialise. The four-storey building has hot desks, resident desks, private studios and premium suites alongside social areas with a bar, kitchen and space to host lifestyle pop-ups.
Since opening the building has welcomed 60 companies and 360 members from small independent and established organisations, including digital marketing agency Bobble Digital, public affairs agency Grayling, education tech startup Glean, investment and scaling consultancy CRSI, and most recently Finn Communications.
With level one and the mezzanine workspaces now largely occupied, the development of The Loft on level two has been given the go ahead and will launch to members in May 2024. The Loft will be the largest space available in Department, with direct access to more creative studios, podcasting facilities, a cinema, and an event space.
Amy Matthams, general manager at Department Leeds Dock, said: “Since launching in February the interest in joining our community has been incredible.
“We have quickly created a diverse community of independents and businesses from the media, creative and business industries to form our own hub within this brilliantly creative city. And the pace isn’t slowing down, with even more new members confirmed for January, including the B2B tech marketing agency, Fox Agency.
“Department Leeds Dock’s growth this year has enabled us to consider the next stage of the redevelopment. This impressive space of 3,860 sqft will offer members a space where their work and social lives can coexist, and creativity can be maximised.
“We appreciate that not all work happens in front of a screen, so we have tailored the space to suit the businesses that inhabit it. This includes more breakout spaces, a podcasting suite, content creation studios, post-production editing suites and a cinematic screening room.”
Department Leeds Dock members can also use on-site wellness facilities at Condition Gym, Fearns kitchen, bar and lounge, and the site also hosts regular events including mortgage and financial advice, guided meditation, life drawing, and nutrition workshops.
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