A new partnership has been formed between start-up business Reunion and Hub Space; a brand new initiative at The Old School House in Belper, the Home of Creative Holistic Space and Chevin Fleet Solutions. Reunion @ Hub Space will bring flexible cowork spaces to Belper – a first for the town.
When Tracey Sowerby realised that Reunion were looking for a space for their coworking plans, she contacted founder Jo Black. Tracey and Ashley renovated the former school house in 2012 and it has been the home of their two businesses, Creative Holistic Space and Chevin Fleet Solutions ever since. The sensitively restored historic building can accommodate around 60 people.
However, since working from home became the norm an opportunity presented itself to rethink the use of the Chevin office space. Tracey said: “We have a modern, top spec office environment that currently is not being fully utilised and thought it would be a great fit to work with Reunion who can make great use of the space and open it up to people that need it.”
Jo Black, founder and director of Reunion, had been searching for an appropriate location for her community deli and cowork business since the summer, but had several setbacks in finding a site that would be suitable.
Reunion have recently acquired 23 Strutt Street, the site of former deli Fresh Basil, but knew that the space would not be appropriate for cowork members. Jo said: “We love the site on Strutt Street, but realised that it may not be the best environment for our cowork members, as we want to welcome all members of the community, including families, and the space may get a bit noisy if you’re trying to host a zoom call!
“We are delighted to be working with Tracey and Ashley at The Old School House, it is truly a wonderful heritage building that’s a real asset to Belper, combined with all the facilities that you’d expect in a modern office.”
Belper and the wider Amber Valley has many micro and small businesses in the area, and Reunion hopes to bring business owners and remote workers alike together and establish a much-needed business community that centres in the town.
The cowork space will be partly shared with Chevin Fleet Solutions, and will have high speed internet, modern desks and chairs, bookable meeting rooms, parking, bike storage and kitchen facilities. Reunion @ Hub Space will be open to booking new members in the coming weeks and expect to open in May. Members will also receive discounts on food at Reunion Deli and gain access to networking events.
