Social impact startup Patch officially launched its new South Coast coworking hub at Bobby’s Bournemouth this week.

More than 300 of the region’s leading entrepreneurs and cultural figures gathered to connect and celebrate the opening, co-hosted with local creatives Pier Journal.

The new hub offers design-led coworking studios and private offices for freelancers, startups and scaleups, with public meeting and event spaces for all manner of potential uses.

On the night, welcome speeches were delivered by Patch CEO Freddie Fforde, creative director Paloma Strelitz and site director Karley Woodford, as well as Pier Journal founder Sammy Murphy.

Paloma said: “As we open our doors, our ambition for Patch is to become the leading space for startups and small businesses to thrive.

“Already, we’re seeing a vibrant mix of entrepreneurs, creatives and local talent coming together to build something exceptional.

“We’re just getting started and look forward to seeing how this community will drive innovation and collaboration across the South Coast.”

The new workspace combines the iconic building’s original features – like wooden floorboards, ornate pressed metal ceilings and large arched windows – with modern amenities such as superfast WiFi, ergonomic chairs, electric standing desks, second screens, focus booths for private work and complimentary coffee.

Sammy added: “We’re thrilled to be collaborating with Patch on the launch of their new co-working space in Bobby’s.

“This partnership is another step toward transforming Bournemouth into a creative hub full of opportunity.

“We’re launching our autumn issue of Pier Journal here tonight.

“We ran a competition with local designers and artists to design a cover for the autumn issue, and we’d like to take this opportunity to say a massive well done to Kathryn Harman who designed the incredible cover!”

Karley added: “We have such a strong community of freelancers and creatives here in Bournemouth, and I’m happy to say that we already have over 100 members.

“It’s a lively and welcoming atmosphere, and we invite anyone to come in, take a look around and enjoy the space.

“We still have offices and memberships available, or you can just drop by and say hi – we’re all very friendly.

“Our goal is for Patch to be the go-to place for inspiration and enjoyment.

“We’re already in talks with a wide range of cultural groups and business organisations to plan a standout series of events in our space.”

Coworking membership starts at £24 a month (excluding VAT).

• patch.work/locations/bournemouth