Romford office solution renamed
A co-working space in Romford, known as The Retailery, reopened under a fresh name recently.
On December 4th 2018, The Retailery closed its doors. However, Havering Council has stepped into the breach. As a result, the structure is open for business once more as 80-84 Market Place. Stationery printers can assist businesses with documentation during periods of change.
Council leader Damian White explained the situation to the Romford Recorder:
“The council is a huge champion of independent and diverse local business and leisure spaces like 80-84 Market Place, but it wasn’t right for us to continue supporting the previous operators at cost to the taxpayer.”
Councillor White confirmed that the spirit of the building will be maintained. He is searching for another operator to take on the challenge of running it. If the quest proves successful, there is the prospect of a possible further name change.
Previous operator Things Made Public (TMP) reportedly received an initial subsidy from the Greater London Authority. It then required relief from business rates on a discretionary basis. After an application for assistance, this relief was not obtained. Nevertheless, TMP kept the right to use The Retailery brand going forward.
Meanwhile, Councillor White suggested that the new arrangement should be appropriate for the growth of start-ups. Entrepreneurs will still be able to employ the hub and benefit from support services.