THE revitalisation of the historic Town Hall building in Tunbridge Wells is well underway with the first phase of the new co-workspace opening to the public on February 12.
The building, which has undergone extensive refurbishment, is being opened in phases over 12 months as works progress and more space becomes available. Phase one has now been launched – and the new space includes meeting rooms, a co-working communal area and several offices.
The project’s operator, Town Square Spaces Ltd (TownSq), announced that it has appointed Lucie Merkl as the Hub Manager.
“Lucie will be responsible for finding and supporting new members, sourcing and organising business mentors and workshops, arranging events and the general day-to-day running of the space,” a Town Hall spokesperson told the Times.
Lucie is already well established in the community, having lived here for 27 years and previously run her own florist and antiques business, The Bloom Foundry, on St John’s Road.
Commenting on her appointment, Lucie said she was ‘delighted’ to start welcoming people to the historic building: “The Town Hall has always been such a focal point in the middle of town that it’s developed a mystique of its own amongst locals. So I’m delighted to finally be able to welcome people into this incredible space where they can collaborate, learn and work together.”
She added: “Working from home has its perks sometimes but people naturally want that social element. There is a real community ethos in the town, so to have a dedicated workspace in such a beautiful landmark building is very special.
“We’re already getting a lot of interest, so I can’t wait to be able to welcome our first members into the space, and to start turning the building into a thriving business hub that will support and grow the community around it.”
TownSq operates the Town Hall in partnership with Tunbridge Wells Borough Council. Its Community Director, Carl Turner added: “Co-working is not just about providing desk space and internet access, it’s about fostering a community of supportive individuals and teams, who can share experience and help each other grow. The Hub Manager is the key to all of that, and so we’re delighted to have appointed someone who already has such experience of living and working in Tunbridge Wells.
“Lucie’s experience running a local business will be invaluable as she supports local start-ups and growing businesses. We’re delighted to have opened the first phase and would encourage anyone who wants to take a look, to get in touch with Lucie and book a tour.”
Cllr Justine Rutland, Cabinet member for Economic Development at Tunbridge Wells Borough Council said: “We are delighted that the Town Hall is now open for business and that Lucie has come on board. Tunbridge Wells is a great place to work and there’s a lot going on in a very friendly and supportive business community.
“The Town Hall is looking absolutely fabulous after its refurbishment, and we are looking forward to seeing it buzzing.”
Alongside the offices, the first phase of the coworking space opens on Monday (12th) with an introductory 5 days for £5 offer for the first 50 coworkers.
To learn more about the Town Hall you can book a tour with Lucie and the team by going to twtownhall.co.uk
