The Platform building, uniquely integrated into Leeds Railway Station, has swiftly become a prime location for tech start-ups seeking a vibrant co-working environment. Within its first year, Platform is already 95 per cent occupied or under offer, demonstrating its immediate appeal and success.
Bruntwood’s Platform building, strategically positioned adjacent to Leeds Railway Station, offers a compelling option for tech start-ups. The UK’s largest regional property developer and operator, Bruntwood, secured a £2 million funding award from Leeds City Council to establish this tech incubator, aimed at digital start-up companies and tech entrepreneurs. Operating in close partnership with the city council, the hub is projected to support more than 1,000 new jobs over its lifetime.
Craig Burrow, Bruntwood’s director of Leeds, highlights the company’s perseverance through economic challenges, particularly the global recession in 2008, to bring the building to market. Initially built in the 1960s and known as City House, the building encountered its share of hurdles, including being outbid and subsequently purchased during a recession for £2.5 million. The extensive refurbishment, which began in 2015 and cost £18 million, was complicated further when the contractors went into administration, necessitating the re-employment of key staff to minimise delays.
Platform’s tech incubator, which spans three floors, embodies the essence of Bruntwood’s vision for supporting tech and digital businesses in Leeds. The incubator caters to various stages of a company’s growth, from hot-desking and dedicated desking to co-working spaces. “We’ve seen a significant rise in the number of tech and digital businesses taking space and growing within the city,” Burrow remarked.
Operating for over a decade, Platform continues to evolve, providing additional space to accommodate growing businesses. Presently, 70 businesses, including promising start-ups like Digibete, Synap, and Hero Wellbeing, are thriving within the incubator’s innovative ecosystem. Firms like Shoosmiths and rradar have also established a presence within Platform, leveraging its strategic location and resources.
Wendy Denman, the community engagement manager, plays a crucial role in nurturing the Platform community. Organising up to 250 events annually, she fosters engagement and collaboration among members. Meanwhile, Kirstie Shapley, the partnership and programmes manager, ensures the business support program meets the diverse needs of Platform customers, offering support ranging from investment to legal issues.
Platform’s success mirrors the burgeoning tech sector in Leeds. Kirstie Shapley emphasises that while London is a significant hub, Leeds offers substantial support and connections for tech start-ups. “Location has been a huge factor in the success of Platform. We are pushing the message that you don’t have to be in London to be a start-up – we’ve got support in Leeds and connections with other tech hubs,” Shapley stated.
Therefore, Platform’s successful first year exemplifies the potential for tech growth outside London, with its strategic location and robust support systems making it an ideal launching pad for tech startups.
In summary, Platform’s integrated location, coupled with comprehensive support systems and robust community engagement, underscores its successful first year and promising future in fostering tech innovation in Leeds.