News / Boxworks
Shipping container workspace moves from Temple Meads to Brabazon
Bristol’s original shipping container workspace has moved from its site by Bristol Temple Meads to the new Brabazon development.
For seven years, the distinctive Boxworks has provided flexible studio space for startups and small businesses, providing a launchpad for more than 80 local firms.
Forward, the company behind the workspace, has now relocated it to the new development on the former Filton Airfield.
On the move to Brabazon, Gavin Eddy, founder and chief executive at Forward, said: “We are really excited to be relocating Boxworks to Brabazon.
“Boxworks sets the standard for innovative workspaces at Temple Meads, and by partnering with YTL Developments on the most ambitious and exciting development in Bristol, this move offers a long-term opportunity to create and nurture a new cluster of ambitious and exciting businesses at Brabazon.”
Bristol’s original shipping container workspace has moved from its site by Bristol Temple Meads to the new Brabazon development – photo: Boxworks
Brabazon is the new neighbourhood being built by YTL Developments on the former Filton Airfield, in the heart of north Bristol’s world-leading aviation, aerospace and technology cluster.
Approximately 48,000 people already work in high-value manufacturing, life science and technology businesses within two miles of Brabazon.
Forward bosses say the arrival of Boxworks promises to bring a valuable new incubator space to this ecosystem.
To date, approximately 150 new homes have been completed and occupied at Brabazon. A further 250 are currently under construction.
YTL Developments has also detailed planning permission for a new local community hub in the historic aircraft hangar 16U, 1,514 beds of student accommodation, 239 homes designed for later living and the new 19,000-capacity YTL Arena Bristol.
In addition, YTL Developments have consent for Brabazon Park, which is billed as being the largest new urban public space in the South West for over 50 years. And over £100m is being invested in local transport, including a new railway station that will connect to Bristol Temple Meads in less than 15 minutes.
For the past seven years, Boxworks has been based at Bristol Temple Meads, providing a launchpad for over 80 local firms – photo: Boxworks
Welcoming Boxworks to Brabazon, Seb Loyn, planning and development director at YTL Developments said: “Brabazon is designed to be the new home for Bristol’s next generation of pioneers. We want to live up to the legacy of Concorde and the former airfield’s incredible record for innovation. Boxwork’s flexible and affordable workspace for growing companies will provide a vital missing link in North Bristol’s business ecosystem.”
The 20 private studios at Boxworks are suitable for up to six to eight people each and are designed to be energy efficient.
Members of Boxworks at Brabazon will also have access to additional facilities at Aerospace Bristol.
Sally Cordwell, CEO of Aerospace Bristol, said: “As a museum and charity that celebrates innovation, connects local communities, and aims to inspire future generations, Aerospace Bristol is pleased to support Boxworks at Brabazon.
“We look forward to welcoming Boxworks members and their guests for delicious meals and coffees in the cafe, meetings and events in our first-class spaces, and fascinating museum visits.”
Boxworks at Brabazon is expected to open to new occupiers in the second quarter of 2024.
All photos: Boxworks
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