Grade II listed building in Leamington undergoes transformation
The transformation of a Grade II listed building in Leamington has been completed as part of the first stage of the town’s ten-year Creative Quarter initiative.
Regeneration specialist Complex Development Projects (CDP) is working in partnership with Warwick District Council to revitalise the Old Town.
The Fold now features hot desks, breakout spaces, ten meeting rooms, six hideaways, a café & bar, and a members’ club, all meticulously crafted to enhance collaboration and productivity.
Its mezzanine level has been extended and the triple-glazed atrium now features a central glazed staircase which links all three levels.
The historic building is part of a wider development at Spencer Yard in Leamington Old Town which includes the SAE Institute moving into the Old Nursery while there remain available units in The Old Dole Office.
Marketing group Cogent has taken more than 19,000 sq ft of open-plan co-working areas and office space.
In the church crypts are sound and virtual production studios, alongside editing and innovation suites, catering to various recording needs such as podcasts, music, and voiceovers.
Renovation work at The Fold has received funding from the Future High Streets Fund as part of the Government’s plan to renew and reshape town centres.
The financial package also includes a loan from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) which was arranged by Frontier Development Capital.
Ian Gathard, CEO of the Cogent Group, said “Our members seem as excited about the space as we are, I feel very lucky to work here. CDP has made the most use of the space and the fit-out is to an extremely high standard while retaining the stunning original features. The Fold has lived up to our expectations and more. It is a beautiful spacious environment that lends itself to a creative meeting of minds for freelancers, small business owners or members of the community that have booked a meeting. Another dimension which sets The Fold apart is the professional standard green screen and recording studios, which is something Leamington’s creative community sorely needs.”
Ian Harrabin, Managing Director of CDP, said: “The completion of the fit-out at The Fold signifies the start of the creation of the Cultural Quarter in Leamington since this is a tangible difference for everyone to see and make the most of.
“We have spent around £5.5m bringing the Grade II listed United Reformed Church and the other buildings back into use and the transformation is incredible. This inspirational place to work at the Fold is only the start. We are continuing to work hard to revitalise other neglected buildings to bring them back to life to provide spaces for gaming and
digital businesses as well as an exciting art, cultural and community events programme.”
