On Thursday 3rd July 2014, United Business Centres officially opened its first serviced office centre in Central Birmingham.
65 Church Street, the latest addition to UBC’s portfolio of flexible workplaces, was launched during a breakfast networking event. UBC’s Managing Director, Tom Mulvaney, introduced attendees by telling the story of the building.
“We take care to invest in buildings that have charm and character,” he said. “65 Church Street is an Edwardian building that dates back to 1908. It’s a former Diocesan Lodge of the Girls’ Friendly Society, an initiative set up in 1875 to provide support and accommodation for young women who were new to urban life. Queen Victoria was patron of the Girls’ Friendly Society.
“Today it’s still providing support and accommodation, although now it’s for local small and medium-sized firms who are looking for a flexible office base from which to grow and prosper. We’ve just refurbished the building and we’re delighted that so many businesses from Birmingham and the surrounding areas could be here to celebrate the launch with us.”
Gary Cardin, Chair of Colmore Business District (CBD), presented information to attendees on the role of CBD and the steps they have taken to improve the local area for businesses and residents.
Among them, he referred to the enhancement work to Colmore Square and the creation of Church Street Square; both of which now provide attractive, pedestrian friendly public spaces with seating and landscaping.
He described the BID as “successful in improving the District as a place to work, visit and invest”. He welcomed United Business Centres and clients to the Colmore area, before formally declaring UBC Church Street officially open.
Speaking about UBC, Gary said, “I am delighted to be welcoming a new business to the District, particularly one which will be supporting the growth of SMEs in CBD by providing serviced and flexible office space.”
The event concluded with an informative talk on content marketing and social media by local copywriter Jo Disney, and an opportunity for attendees to network over coffee and breakfast.