[T]he grand opening of a former Grade II listed pub, which has been converted into work spaces for local businesses, takes place next month (Saturday 4th November).
The Duke William, in Staveley, was left derelict after serving its last orders more than four years ago, but has now been given a fresh lease of life by property development and regeneration company, Watch This Space.
“Billy’s Space” which was designed by John Coward Architects will be a creative work hub suitable for office or leisure use and is made up of seven spaces, from one to fifty person businesses.
The 6,000 sq ft development includes cycle storage, electric car charging, showers and each space can be rented or bought, giving people the opportunity to be their own landlords- a rarity in the commercial market. They all come complete with a separate front door, kitchen and toilets, with some featuring additional quirks such as fire places.
The spaces are available to buy or rent from Saturday 4th November and to celebrate, a special launch event will take place that same day from 2pm until 6pm with an invite open to all.
This will give fellow residents and prospective businesses the opportunity to take a tour of the new development as it opens its doors for the first time.
The event will include a special performance from world champion free runner Ryan Doyle who is coming to inspire the youngsters to be active and take on new challenges; as well as live music from local Lakes guitarist, Fiona Hanlon. There will be a drinks reception with local beers being served throughout the afternoon.
Original furniture from the former pub has been upcycled and will also be for grabs with all money raised going to preserve and restore St Margaret’s Tower, the listed building next door to Billy’s Space which is looked after by a group of local elderly gentleman known as ‘The Last of the Summer Wine’.
Speaking about the launch, Michelle Rothwell, founder of Watch This Space, who grew up in the Lake District, said: “I am incredibly proud of what we have achieved at Billy’s Space as we have breathed fresh life back into a once much-loved building and this development will help to nurture and retain local talent.
“By regenerating this property, and creating innovative work spaces, we hope to inspire employees and create a hub for the next generation of businesses in Staveley to grow and succeed in a beautiful community.
“It’s also in the perfect location, being so close to the Staveley Mill Yard, so by bringing Billy’s Space to the market we can further help to cement Staveley as an established business destination.
She concluded: “We are really looking forward to the launch and hope as many residents as possible turn up as they played a valuable and positive contribution to this scheme.
“During the consultation period, we received over 150 responses and we couldn’t have done it without their support.”
Access to Billy’s Space is off Main Street and it is located at the entrance of Staveley Mill Yard which is occupied by cafes, shops, pubs and breweries.
For further information see our Facebook www.facebook.com/billysspacestaveley/ or look at the progress on www.billysspace.property or @wtsproperty