A £2 million workplace hub project will open in Bobby's department store in Bournemouth town centre.

Bobby's has partnered with social-impact startup, Patch, to open a workplace hub for entrepreneurs, creatives and community builders. 

Patch is a startup that aims to reignite UK town centres and will work with Bobby's to bring its community-driven 'neighbourhood workspace' to the former Debenhams store in the Square. 

Freddie Fforde, founder and CEO of Patch, said:  “Our aim is to create the best place for startups and small businesses to thrive on the South Coast.

"As a local landmark, Patch at Bobby’s will serve as an iconic hub for entrepreneurs, creatives, and community builders, offering fantastic workspaces and a dynamic environment for work, collaboration and connection.

"As a B Corp, Patch is committed to being a force for local good and we're excited for people to come together in our space to support business growth, town centre revitalisation, and community empowerment.”

Due to open this autumn, the hub will offer design-led coworking and offices with spaces for community and cultural uses across Bobby's first floor. 

The space includes a co-working studio overlooking Bournemouth Square and a residents’ study with dedicated desks in the building’s most historic wing.

When fully occupied, Patch will be home to 20 companies occupying private offices and approximately 500 coworking members.

Ashley Nicholson, director at Verve Properties and the visionary landlord behind Bobby’s, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Patch into Bobby’s. There’s a great synergy between the two organisations who both feel a responsibility to rejuvenate the town by bringing new life into it.

"We’ve actively encouraged local artists and entrepreneurs into the building from day one because we know how important a thriving cultural and business scene is to Bournemouth’s success.

"Working with Patch has enabled us to open our doors even wider and we can’t wait to welcome everyone in.”

Co-working memberships start at £24 a month. Patch plans to establish partnerships with Bournemouth’s universities and offer scholarships to local students to provide them with access to these spaces in the future.