Thrive – the local SE16 community business hub based in Surrey Quays Leisure Complex – has undergone a radical transformation in order to help local start-ups get back on their feet post-COVID. The newly re-vamped space will provide brand new individual, truly affordable offices, meeting rooms and makerspaces for local entrepreneurs – all with COVID security features – to help start-ups grow in what’s been the most challenging year ever for small business. The opening comes as the UK confirms it is officially in recession, for the first time in 11 years.

Supported by British Land and run by Tree Shepherd, Thrive, which was first opened last year, offers business support and advice, especially to SE16 residents and is already home to a range of business people from film-makers to counsellors, cocktail makers and fashion designers, all from the local area.  The re-design involves perspex screens, new booths for hot-desking, nine individual offices, three new meeting rooms and a large COVID-secure meeting space with social distancing.

During lockdown, the spacious centre provided a safe haven for new start-ups who were able to effectively distance and carry on trading, but the re-modelled space will allow even more people to benefit from low-cost space as well as ongoing business support. Priority is given to those living closest to Thrive, and those living in the wider SE16 area. With jobs a scarcity, starting up on your own and supporting local business is more important than ever, as CEO of Tree Shepherd, Colin Crooks explains:

“We are so pleased to be opening our doors again and offering these amazing new self-contained offices and makerspaces. This year has been an absolute horror –small businesses are suffering all around, and now to hear we’re in a recession – it’s a lot to take, both mentally and financially. We’re here to support you. Thrive is a special place – it’s a home away from home, a safe place to give your new business a real shot with like-minded entrepreneurs. We want to help people living in SE16, and we hope as many people as possible will come and see us. Whether you’re freelance, a start-up or looking for a space to meet with your community group again, please get in touch and drop by to say hello!”

In addition to nine offices, it also offers three meeting rooms, bookable by the day or half-day, superfast Wifi, kitchen and printing facilities, and a large space for community events at a social distance. Offices start at 55sqft at £144 per month, with discounts for charities and new start-ups.

Situated in the car park of the Surrey Quays Leisure Centre, it is home to ample parking and light, airy windows and a fun and friendly mix of entrepreneurs.

Phil Vinter, a film-maker currently at Thrive, says “I came here last year and it’s been a total haven for me – somewhere to grow my business away from home with great business support. I don’t think there is a more affordable creative office space in London. There is parking on site, a good internet connection and a supportive team running the operation. Come and join us!”

Also in Thrive is Tomas Lenko, a cocktail-maker who started Strongmans Tipple which has become a favourite in the UK and internationally. He says “Thrive gave me opportunity to transform my vision into business. Strongmans Tipple is now stocked all over London, it’s gone from success to success. I can’t thank the team at Thrive enough.”

To find out more about Thrive or how to become a member, please visit their website here or call 020 3948 3020. Its current opening times are Monday – Wednesday, 10am – 6pm.