FREELANCERS and start up businesses are being invited to benefit from brand-new office space in Leicester, which can be rented out on a monthly basis at the city’s new Gresham Aparthotel.
The office accommodation, invested in and managed by Leicester City Council, offers a chance for freelancers, remote workers, start-ups, and businesses to use the space for as little as £175 per month.
There are a variety of options to use the 11,000 sq. ft. space, including hiring entire areas of the office or individual hot desks, all based on the ground floor and basement of the former Fenwick department store.
Rental fees include high speed broadband, reception services and a number of other incentives – including unlimited free coffee.
“We have focused on creating an inviting environment and a variety of spaces for people to work in to help them bring the best out of what they do,” said Gresham Works’ manager Crystal Carter.
“We’ll also cater for a wide range of needs as people change the way that they work. We expect to have tenants who normally work from home, but who want a change a couple of times a week, people who will come in every day to work, and those who believe it’s nice to have a city centre base away from their usual office. “The beauty of this scheme is that it’s flexible – and we’re looking forward to providing people with the office space that works for them.”
City mayor Peter Soulsby said that the redevelopment of the former Fenwick’s store into The Gresham Aparthotel has given a huge boost to the shops and businesses in this area of the city centre.
“Now, in the next stage of its opening, The Gresham will provide a bright, light and contemporary workspace for freelancers, sole traders or start-up businesses – and will give these workers the opportunity to be part of a creative, supportive community in the heart of the city,” he said.
“I’m very pleased that the city council was able to support the redevelopment of this iconic building by investing £450,000 into this scheme, and I’m confident that Gresham Works will prove to be just as successful as our existing serviced units in supporting new and small businesses to thrive.”
The Gresham building’s 121-bed aparthotel and its restaurant – Black Iron Social – opened in November, following a £17m refurbishment by developer Aimrok Holdings.
Fenwick closed its doors back in 2017 after being a staple of Leicester city centre for more than 50 years. For more information about working at Gresham Works, contact Crystal Carter on 0116 296 8000 or by email at crystal.carter@leicester.gov.uk.
