A new coworking space overlooking St Ives harbour is set to open in the New Year.
Spread over four floors, Bayspace will offer a range of flexible membership options, from freelancers seeking an occasional hot desk, to SMEs looking for private office space from which to grow their business.
Just moments from St Ives’ bus and train stations, Bayspace also has bike and board storage – and indoor and outdoor showers – allowing for all manner of low carbon commutes on the Cornish coast.
The transformation of the Georgian building on Fernlea Terrace also features breakout areas, disabled access, a café, and meeting rooms bookable by the wider community; a programme of events – including workshops, training, and skills sessions.
The restoration project has been led by architects Studio Skein and contractor Catling Construction.
Steve Morrin, newly-appointed head of Bayspace, said: “With work nearing completion we’re almost set to welcome our first members, and will begin hosting meetings and events early in the new year.
“Our mission is to make a positive impact on the local community, supporting year-round jobs, sustainable growth, and nurturing collaboration. There’s a real buzz in the building already, and we can’t wait for our first members to arrive and begin work.”
The project has been nurtured into life by St Ives resident and experienced business consultant, Rowena Swallow, who helped form St Ives Workstation Community Interest Company and is now director of programme & development – Bayspace is the CIC’s first project, with more planned to follow.
Having identified a strong need for a work hub to allow local businesses to reach their full potential, the CIC was able to secure funding from the Coastal Communities Fund to purchase the building, which is now set to become a launchpad for start-ups and home to growing enterprises across a range of sectors.
