Patch Gloucester has officially opened at The Forum, marking a major milestone in the transformation of Gloucester city centre.
The new workspace, spanning 17,000 sq ft, is the largest Patch site to date and forms part of The Forum, the city’s flagship £107 million regeneration scheme. The opening represents a significant step forward in the delivery of the mixed-use development led by Gloucester City Council in partnership with Reef + Partners.
Designed as a destination for work, culture and community activity, Patch offers private offices, coworking studios, bookable meeting rooms and flexible event spaces. The space aims to support solopreneurs, start-ups, SMEs and community organisations, while encouraging collaboration and connection in the heart of the city.
Freddie Fforde, founder of Patch, said the Gloucester opening was a proud moment for the company. He described being part of an ambitious project to revitalise the city centre as a privilege, adding that Patch would provide a vibrant home for businesses and community groups, attract new talent and create fresh opportunities for work and culture across Gloucester.
The space is already attracting ambitious local entrepreneurs, drawn by its design-led environment and the chance to connect with others shaping the city’s future.
Cllr Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, said the opening of Patch at The Forum marked an important milestone for both the development and the wider regeneration of Gloucester. He said Patch’s decision to open its flagship office in the city demonstrated confidence in Gloucester’s future growth and would help bring new jobs, activity and energy into the city centre.
Patch Gloucester includes light-filled offices for start-ups and SMEs, a range of coworking memberships, and a dedicated Focus Studio designed for quiet, concentrated work. A lively members’ lounge provides space for collaboration, networking and social events, while shared amenities include private phone booths and complimentary bean-to-cup coffee.
The interior has been designed to feel colourful, creative and energising. At its heart is a terracotta-toned members’ lounge and bar featuring Gloucester Patchwork, an original textile artwork by Stroud-based artist Clemency Calkin. Prints by local artists Alice Brisland and Marcus Walters are displayed throughout the space, while drinks offerings include beer from Gloucester Brewery and coffee roasted by Ethical Addictions in Staverton.
Meeting rooms and event spaces will host a varied programme of business, cultural and community activities. Patch Academy, a flexible events studio, can accommodate large meetings, panel discussions and wellness sessions, while other rooms celebrate local landmarks, including the Kingsholm Board Room, named after Gloucester Rugby Club’s home ground. Additional facilities include a Wellness Lounge and a Content Creation Studio for podcast production.
The Gloucester space is led by local director Laura Griffiths, supported by community managers Clive Bremner and Hettie Gardner. The team plans to build a strong and supportive community through regular member events and partnerships with local organisations.
Laura Griffiths said she was passionate about creating a space where businesses of all sizes can thrive, combining big ambition with local warmth. She added that the team was already welcoming a diverse mix of organisations and looked forward to seeing the space come alive with energy and ideas.