Boxworks moves from Bristol Temple Meads to Brabazon

As work to redevelop Bristol Temple Meads station gets under way, Workspace provider, Forward  is moving Boxworks – Bristol’s original shipping container workspace to Brabazon at Filton just outside the city centre.

Boxworks provides flexible studio space for start-ups and small businesses. For the last seven years, the containers have been based next to Bristol Temple Meads station, where more than 80 local firms, from architects to lawyers, technology firms to charities, creative studios and product designers have set up home.

Bristol Temple Meads station is being enhanced to improve rail access to and from Bristol and the region. Major changes include new entrances, a repaired roof, new retail spaces, improved passenger facilities, and easier access to the station from public transport, walking and cycling.

Brabazon is the new neighbourhood being built by YTL Developments on the former Filton Airfield, close to North Bristol’s world-leading aviation, aerospace and technology cluster. Approximately 48,000 people already work in high-value manufacturing, life science and technology businesses within two miles of Brabazon. The arrival of Boxworks brings a valuable new incubator space to this ecosystem.

To date, approximately 150 new homes have been completed and occupied at Brabazon. A further 250 are currently under construction. YTL Developments also has detailed planning permission for a new local community hub in the historic aircraft hangar 16U, 1,514 beds of student accommodation, 239 homes designed for later living and the supersonic new 19,000-capacity YTL Arena Bristol.

YTL Developments also has consent for Brabazon Park: a reimaging of Britain’s tradition of Victorian public parks and the largest new urban public space in the South West for more than 50 years.

More than £100 million is being invested in local transport, including a new railway station that will connect to Bristol Temple Meads in less than 15 minutes.

The 20 private studios at Boxworks measure 28sqm and are suitable for up to 6 to 8 people each. They are super-insulated to be energy efficient; cool in summer, warm in winter and quiet all year round. Heating, lighting, parking, cleaning and broadband are all included and units can be provided furnished or unfurnished.

Members of Boxworks at Brabazon will also have access to additional facilities at Aerospace Bristol. As well as being a popular visitor attraction that explores the history of aerospace in the local area, the museum has a café, shop, and a range of meeting and event spaces.

Boxworks at Brabazon is expected to open to new occupiers this spring Q2 2024.

Seb Loyn, Planning & Development Director at YTL Developments said: "Brabazon is designed to be the new home for Bristol’s next generation of pioneers. We want to live up to the legacy of Concorde and the former Airfield’s incredible record for innovation. Boxwork’s flexible and affordable work space for growing companies will provide a vital missing link in North Bristol’s business ecosystem."

Sally Cordwell, CEO of Aerospace Bristol, said: “As a museum and charity that celebrates innovation, connects local communities, and aims to inspire future generations, Aerospace Bristol is pleased to support Boxworks at Brabazon. We look forward to welcoming Boxworks members and their guests for delicious meals and coffees in the cafe, meetings and events in our first-class spaces, and fascinating museum visits."