Riverside warehouse to become work and community hub
Coworking business, Patch, plans to open a 12,000 sq ft workspace in a distinctive York building – the Bonding Warehouse.
It is scheduled to open in January 2025 and aims to support business growth in the local area.
Patch is collaborating with City of York Council to bring new use to the property.
Occupying what was formerly the headquarters of unicorn tech company, Anaplan, the initiative will transform the riverside warehouse, creating space for the tech and creative industry.
The property will also provide multi-functional event space for social-impact organisations, social enterprises and charities, connecting business with local residents and promoting a greater sense of community pride.
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.”
Councillor Pete Kilbane, executive member for economy and culture at City of York Council, said: “I am thrilled with the news that Patch has selected York for the new co-working, innovation and community hub, and that our Inward Investment team, with partners, have been able to support in getting this established in our city.
“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.”
Once it is open, the building will feature a range of offices for up to 50 people. When it is fully occupied, Patch is expected to host over 50 companies and approximately 400 coworking members.
Access to the studios and meeting rooms will be bookable by the hour, accommodating individuals and groups organising events ranging from creative writing classes and cinema clubs to sewing workshops and start-up summits.