Watch This Space starts work on Billy’s
Property development and regeneration company, Watch This Space, has started on the conversion of the former grade two-listed Duke William pub in Staveley into a co-working development for creatives, known as Billy’s Space.
The South Lakeland project includes nine dedicated workspaces, each with its own front door, suitable for offices or leisure use. Each unit has its own kitchen, toilets, cycle storage, electric car charging spaces and retain listed features such as fireplaces. In addition to the refurbishment of the existing building, planning permission has been secured for a 1,700 sq ft extension which will be built at the end of the existing property.
Preston–based N Lowe & Green has been appointed as main contractor, working with John Coward Architects, who designed the scheme.
Michelle Rothwell, founder of Watch This Space, said: “We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive response we’ve had from both businesses and the local community as they can really appreciate the positive impact this development will have on the area.
“As an innovative, young and ambitious regeneration company, we’re looking at ways we can create new opportunities in the market and inspire the next generation through developing creative spaces. We’re also disrupting the market by giving occupiers the opportunity to be their own landlord as we’re offering occupiers the opportunity to purchase or lease the spaces. The opportunity as an occupier to purchase part of a scheme is a rarity in the commercial market and we’re pleased to see this has created such a buzz so early on.”
Last year the Manchester-based company launched one of the UK’s first property co-working spaces in Manchester city centre, and said it has plans to bring forward more collaborative schemes across the country over the next 12 months.
Rothwell concluded: “We’ve created a real business destination at ‘That Space’ in Manchester and we’re determined to replicate this buzz in Staveley. My family live in Cumbria and so this area of the world has always been close to my heart, which is another reason we’ve chosen to appoint local consultants. With work now underway we’re on schedule to complete in the autumn.”
