A significant new hub for business and community has officially launched in the heart of Gloucester, marking a pivotal moment for the city's regeneration. Patch Gloucester, a vast 17,000 square foot co-working space, is now open for business as part of the ambitious £107 million Forum redevelopment scheme.
A Flagship Space for Modern Work
This new facility represents the largest site to date for the Patch brand and its first within a brand-new mixed-use development. The state-of-the-art workspace is designed to cater to a diverse range of professional needs. It offers private offices and co-working studios alongside bookable meeting rooms and event spaces that are available to the public.
Freddie Fforde, the founder of Patch, expressed his enthusiasm for the launch. "I’m excited to open our largest Patch right in the heart of Gloucester," he said. "Being part of this ambitious city project to revitalise an important Gloucester neighbourhood is a real privilege." He emphasised that Patch aims to create meaningful impact by providing a vibrant home for businesses and community groups, attracting fresh talent and driving new opportunities across the city.
More Than Just Desks: Amenities and Local Art
The workspace goes beyond traditional office offerings to foster wellbeing and creativity. Facilities include a members’ lounge and bar, a dedicated wellness lounge for coaching and therapy sessions, and a content creation studio for podcast production. Practical touches like private phone booths and tea-points with complimentary coffee are also featured.
The interior celebrates local talent, featuring an original textile artwork titled 'Gloucester Patchwork' by Stroud-based artist Clemency Calkin. Additional prints by local artists Alice Brisland and Marcus Walters are on display, connecting the modern space to the region's creative community.
A Cornerstone of The Forum's Vision
The Forum development itself is a major undertaking led by Gloucester City Council in partnership with Reef + Partners. The wider scheme includes 135,000 sq ft of Grade A office space, a four-star Hotel Indigo, a 393-space car park with 41 EV charging points, residential apartments and retail units.
Councillor Jeremy Hilton, leader of Gloucester City Council, hailed the opening as a "significant milestone". He stated, "In opening their flagship office in Gloucester this fast-growing, dynamic company shares our vision and confidence in our city’s future growth."
Laura Griffiths, a Gloucester local and director of Patch Gloucester, will lead the space. "Patch combines big ambition with local warmth," she said. "I’m passionate about creating a space where businesses - from emerging creatives to scale-ups - can thrive."
Peter Langly-Smith, managing director at Reef + Partners, added that Patch brings "energy, creativity and community" to The Forum, playing a key role in establishing it as a vibrant destination for business growth in Gloucester city centre.
