Willway Yard Brings New Businesses to Bedminster

Workspace operator Meanwhile Creative has temporarily converted the former Park Furnishers site into ‘Willway Yard’, a much-needed affordable and sustainable workspace in the heart of Bedminster. Willway Yard falls within the Whitehouse Street Regeneration area and will be developed in line with the Regeneration Framework.

Housing a community of creative businesses and individuals, the site includes a warehouse space that has been subdivided into creative workspace. These warehouse studios are suited, but not exclusive, to makers, designer-makers, production builds, prop stores and other large creative businesses and operations.

Willway Yard also offers 76 thoughtfully repurposed shipping containers that have been converted into functional studios. A range of small start-up businesses alongside makers, desk-based creatives, design agencies and hobbyists have made these containers their home. Meanwhile Creative’s long-term goal is to build a thriving community in the creative hub of Bedminster and give more local start-ups and creatives the space they need to grow.

Meanwhile Creative’s uses of vacant or underused sites such as this one helps to activate spaces until long-term redevelopment happens. They can also help gather insights into what the community needs or desires, informing future redevelopment plans. The increased footfall generated can also help support existing local businesses, including those on East Street and Bedminster Parade, both a short walk from the site.

Current occupants of Willway Yard include therapists, furniture restorers, designers, office users, online retailers, upholsterers and artists. There are still some spaces available, and we encourage interested businesses to visit the Willway Yard website for further details, which includes a helpful information pack.