Urban Splash completes Matchworks transformation - With 20,000 sq ft of lettings and a lowest ever vacancy rate
Having invested six figures in the transformation of Matchworks in South Liverpool, Urban Splash has secured 20,000 sq ft of deals, meaning there is just 7% of vacant space across the estate.
In a commitment to creating great commercial environments, Urban Splash has this year created external spaces, breakout spaces, recreation areas, a programme of foodie events for tenants and now – with the arrival of newest tenant, the Climbing Hangar – a new indoor climbing and café venue.
The tenant will bring its unique climbing concept to a 11,200 sq ft workspace at Matchworks in an expansion from its existing Birchall St base; as well as world class climbing, the innovative leisure centre will also have a coffee house serving up locally sourced food from award winning butchers, brewers and bakers and a calendar of social events to bring people together.
Ged Mac, the founder of Climbing Hangar which was originally established in Liverpool in 2011 and has now expanded across the UK to locations in London, Plymouth and Swansea, talked about how he can’t wait to develop the concept further here in Merseyside for the start of a new decade. He said: “Matchworks provides a great urban setting with an abundance of cool space and all of the benefits of a busy work community – the perfect setting for our new bouldering experience here on Merseyside.
“Our vision is to use climbing to inspire people into happier, healthier more connected lives – from complete novices to gravity defying ninjas, or people who wish to try an adventurous indoor activity with their whole family on a rainy Saturday afternoon. We are so excited about creating this new venue here at Matchworks, reaching out to more people in the local area and spreading the love.”
Added Urban Splash’s commercial lettings director, Emily Handslip: “Commercial life now extends way beyond 9-5; as we enter a new decade, we’ve transformed our workspaces once more, creating hubs which give people a life beyond their desk. The Matchworks is now a place in which people can work and play in equal measure.”
In a bumper month, an additional 4,300 sq ft of lettings were also secured at the Matchworks, while in central Liverpool, Urban Splash has let over 2,300 sq ft at Old Haymarket to On Point Wine Bar which will open in early 2020. As the first ever digital and interactive cocktail and wine bar in Liverpool, owner Rob White chose the location knowing that it would provide a unique space for the exciting new concept. He said: “This is going to be a really fun offering within the local bar scene and I’m proud that we will be based in an Urban Splash scheme.
“The space, which is in an amazing central location lends itself well to our original vision and I can’t wait to open the doors to our first customers who can start their mixology adventures!”
Concluded Emily: “We are delighted that entrepreneurial, exciting businesses are drawn to our developments and that we can provide the very best environments to launch new concepts and commercial projects. With our flexible leasing options and ability to support businesses large and small, from start-ups to established companies, we have a viable and affordable option for everyone.”
