Member Article

Building BloQs to become Europe’s largest open access workshop

Building BloQs, the largest open access workshop in London, is set to become the largest in Europe with its new 50,000 sq ft workshop.

The open access workshop will move from its current 11,000 sq ft base in Edmonton to a new warehouse in the Meridian Water regeneration area following the £2.7m it was awarded from the London Regeneration Fund (LRF) last week.

Offering members access to industry standard machinery on a pay-as-you-go basis, it aims to provide individuals and small businesses with affordable workspaces.

Speaking following the funding award, Building BloQs Co-Founder, Al Parra said: “Building BloQs is creating a powerhouse of making for London. We seek to realise a vision, redefining both making and the approach to space, resource and community.

“We have proved the model, and now with this far sighted support from the GLA and Enfield Council, we will provide greater resources for more freelance makers, small businesses and designers to find both a home and a springboard for innovation and growth for the future of our city.”

At a recent LRF launch event, Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, commented on the wider need for creative workspaces in the capital: “London has got the most amazing range of manufacturers of all kinds; designers, artisans, people who make specialist lights, furniture, specialist bicycles.

“They need space, they need cheap space. 30 years ago, you could go and find a railway arch and pay very little rent, that’s not possible anymore because of the sheer pressure for housing.”