Managed workspace provider toasts tenth anniversary

Managed workspace provider Connect Derby is celebrating a decade of inspiring creativity and growth in the city.

Derby City Council’s pioneering managed workspace initiative was launched in 2014 to support businesses in the region, following the success of its flagship Friar Gate Studios building, which was launched in 2006 to serve Derby’s creative industries.

Since it began, Connect Derby’s portfolio of locations has grown.

2014 saw the opening of Sadler Bridge Studios, Kings Chambers and Riverside Chambers. The following year saw the opening of the historic Shot Tower.

The iconic former Rolls-Royce building Marble Hall, in Nightingale Road, Osmaston, joined the Connect Derby portfolio in 2016, following a £4 million refurbishment.

This was followed by the £12.8 million iHub innovation centre on Infinity Park in 2016.

Over the past decade, Connect Derby has been home to some of the region’s biggest business success stories, many of whom have outgrown its facilities and set up new bases across the city.

It has continued to evolve to meet the changing needs of businesses, with the introduction of new and flexible ways of working, including conventional offices, studios, hot-desking facilities, and virtual tenancies.

Councillor Kathy Kozlowski, the city council’s cabinet member for governance and finance, said: “I would like to congratulate the Connect Derby team on this key milestone.

“They have helped a wide range of businesses grow and succeed. By offering flexible and affordable workspaces, Connect Derby supports both new and established businesses to stay resilient and adapt to change.

“We’re very proud of the impact Connect Derby has had – not just in driving growth, but in building a lively, connected business community in the heart of Derby.”

Sonia Kang, operations manager at Connect Derby, said: “Ten years on and Connect Derby continues to provide exactly the kind of diverse, high quality, workspace that is in high demand in Derby.

“One of the reasons for Connect Derby’s success is its ability to attract businesses from a diverse range of sectors – from professional services to IT, digital and creative industries.

“This mix of industries fosters a dynamic environment where ideas can flourish, and partnerships can thrive.

“Connect Derby remains a hub of innovation, and we will continue to innovate as we help businesses face the new challenges presented by the evolving nature of the world of work.”