A major new flexible workspace is set to launch in the heart of Gloucester, marking a significant milestone for the city's ambitious £107 million regeneration project.
A New Hub for Business and Community
Patch Gloucester, a 17,000 square foot flagship workspace, will officially open its doors on January 5. It represents the largest UK location for the Patch brand and will become a central destination for work, business, and community activity within the transformative Forum development.
The extensive fit-out for the new facility was completed by Cobus Spaces, a Gloucester-based, third-generation family business, which collaborated with a team of local subcontractors. The space will offer a comprehensive range of modern working solutions, including:
- Private offices and co-working studios
- Dedicated desks and members' lounges
- Publicly bookable meeting rooms and event spaces
Driving Dynamism in the City Centre
Freddie Fforde, founder of Patch, expressed pride in the collaboration with Cobus Spaces, noting their shared commitment to sustainability and exceptional workplace design. "With the fit-out complete and final preparations now underway, Patch Gloucester is already starting to feel like the vibrant, community-driven hub we set out to create," said Fforde.
The wider Forum scheme is a partnership between Gloucester City Council and Reef + Partners. Beyond the new workspace, the development encompasses 135,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, a four-star Hotel Indigo, a 393-space car park with 41 EV charging points, residential apartments, and retail units.
Peter Langly-Smith, Managing Director at Reef + Partners, stated that Patch's arrival would "bring real dynamism" to Gloucester, anticipating more inspiring businesses to follow in the new year.
A Major Win Amidst Challenges
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, hailed the arrival of Patch's flagship as a "major win" for the city, predicting it would help bring new jobs and investment, revitalising the urban centre and delivering significant economic benefits. The Forum is projected to boost visitor numbers and draw over a thousand individuals to the King's Quarter area.
However, the initiative, now nearing completion, has not been without its difficulties. The construction phase encountered numerous obstacles, and delays to The Forum were revealed in October to have cost taxpayers approximately £450,000.
Despite these setbacks, the opening of Patch Gloucester in early January stands as a tangible sign of progress for one of the city's most substantial redevelopment projects in recent years.
