A historic York building is set to be transformed into a modern workspace on the back of a £900,000 funding deal.
Social-impact startup Patch is launching new neighbourhood workspace in the Bonding Warehouse in January 2025 amid moves to give a boost to business growth in the area. Patch, which is known for building coworking and community hubs in high streets and town centres, is working in collaboration with the City of York Council to bring new use to the Bonding Warehouse.
The initiative will take over the former headquarters of unicorn tech company, Anaplan, and transform the historic riverside warehouse into workspace for the community, especially the local tech and creative industry. With riverside views, high quality work infrastructure and a programme of community events, Patch’s development aims to create a lively hub for York’s established education and technology sectors, digital media scene and independent makers.
It will also provide event space for social-impact organisations, social enterprises and charities, connecting business with local residents. Once fully occupied, Patch in York is expected to host over 50 companies and approximately 400 coworking members.
The two-floor space has wooden floors, vaulted brick ceilings, and large arched windows, with modern amenities, including super-fast Wifi, contemporary furniture, electric standing desks, second screens, focus booths for private work and free coffee. The announcement comes ahead of the opening of Patch in Bournemouth in November which will see a former Debenhams store transformed in a deal worth £2m. Since its launch in 2020, Patch has created neighbourhood workspaces in Chelmsford, High Wycombe and Twickenham.
(Image: Patch)
Freddie Fforde, founder and CEO of Patch, said: “Our mission is to establish Patch as York’s leading destination for startups and small businesses. Housed within the historic Bonding Warehouse, Patch is poised to become a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs, creatives and community builders. Our spaces are thoughtfully designed to encourage work; collaboration; and genuine connection, fostering an environment that sparks creativity and drives sustainable growth. We are excited to welcome everyone into our community as we collectively shape York’s future as a flourishing centre for entrepreneurship and innovation.”
Coun Pete Kilbane, executive member for economy and culture at City of York Council, said: “The investment will provide an exciting space for local businesses, entrepreneurs, and residents to collaborate, create, and thrive in the heart of the city, adding to the long list of reasons why York is a great place to do business.
“The Bonding Warehouse is a proud symbol of York’s industrial heritage that has adapted over the years to host offices, hospitality and residential accommodation. It is a great example of how a historic city can adapt to the needs of the modern world. Patch is a very welcome addition to the building and York’s business community. I look forward to visiting when opens.”
Original artice – https://business-live.co.uk/all-about/yorkshire-humber
