A new space for entrepreneurs
Urban Foundry’s PopUp Wales initiative has partnered with Caerphilly County Borough Council to launch a new space on High Street in Bargoed.
Following the success of similar projects in Swansea and Bridgend, the space at 28 High Street offers a flexible environment perfect for hot desking, events, meetings, and coworking.
Supporting local businesses
This six-month pilot project includes a 12-week after-hours business support programme (by Welsh ICE). And, fully funded ‘Marketing Boost & Grow’ workshops will be available to support local entrepreneurs.
Flexible and low-risk
The new space provides a flexible, low-risk environment for businesses to trial their services, avoiding high hire fees and legal complexities. It’s a multipurpose area for desk space, pop-up events, and training, significantly supporting new and small businesses.
Economic, social, and cultural benefits
PopUp Wales has shown long-term benefits in other towns, enhancing public perception, supporting start-ups, and revitalising empty shops. The project has event created jobs and led to long term lets.
Voices of support
Cllr Jamie Pritchard, council deputy leader and cabinet member for prosperity, regeneration, and climate change, said: “We’re working to reduce empty buildings in our town centres, and as Bargoed has a higher number of vacant premises, this space has been recognised as an area for intervention.”
Cllr Dawn Ingram-Jones, who represents Bargoed and Aberbargoed, praised the initiative, saying: “It will give entrepreneurs a base where they can test the water before deciding to open a shop in the town. I wish all the traders well and hope that residents and visitors will support them. We will then be able to look forward to a more vibrant town centre.”
Jo-Hillier Raikes, town centre manager for Caerphilly County Borough Council, added that the project would “bring a vitality to the town,” and could encourage other businesses to follow suit.
Get involved
To book any of the workshops and events, visit: https://popupwales.com/bargoed/
This project is funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund.
