Pioneering Project Boosts Business in Basingstoke

A sports complex might not be your first thought when you’re looking for a peaceful and comfortable, drop-in workspace. However, that could soon change thanks to an innovative new project at Better's Basingstoke Leisure Centre.

Staff there have created a designated ‘hot desking’ room where members of the public can catch-up with e-mails, write essays, conduct internet research or complete any number of administrative tasks in a quiet and private environment.

What’s more, it’s completely free for all members while non-members may book four-hour slots for just £10. And because the room is accessed via a code that changes each day, people can feel reassured that their belongings are safe.

Paul Shearman, Partnership Manager in the region, comments, “We’re ideally-situated, right in the town centre – one of the busiest shopping centres in the UK - and close to a railway station. Some of our customers might go shopping or come to our gym or a fitness class and then visit our workspace afterwards.

“We’ve had great feedback. Although there are lots of coffee shops nearby offering free wi-fi, those places can sometimes be very noisy with children crying or the clattering of cups and saucers. People tell us they like our workspace because it’s a quiet oasis.”

The project launched last year and has gradually increased in popularity as word has spread. The centre also offers conference rooms for hire on the premises and there are plans to develop a smaller meeting room.

It is hoped that other Better leisure centres may follow suit with their own workspaces.