THE FUTURE of a prime city centre retail unit has been confirmed as a new venture takes on the site.

The former JD Sports store on the corner of Churchill Square, Brighton, has seen four retailers occupy the space since 2016, but there are hopes a change of use could see the latest succeed.

IWG will build a mixture of co-working and meeting rooms in the former store, its third site in the city.

Mark Buchanan-Smith, centre director for Churchill Square, said: “In light of the rapidly growing demand for hybrid work solutions, we are excited to adapt one of our spaces to meet the evolving needs of local people looking for a professional place to work.

The Argus: The former JD Sports unit has been empty since 2020The former JD Sports unit has been empty since 2020

“Brighton is a vibrant hub, with Churchill Square centrally placed to offer a convenient place to shop, dine and now work in close proximity to Brighton’s other attractions.”

The 7,000 square foot unit will operate under IWG’s Spaces branding.

IWG said its Churchill Square site will give people the chance to work in a “convenient and productive” location.

“By opening this new centre we are happy to play a part in revitalising disused spaces, generating economic activity and creating better solutions which support hybrid working,” said Mark Dixon, chief executive and founder of IWG.

“For several decades, we have been at the forefront of hybrid work, empowering people to work more productively and conveniently.

The Argus: Spaces in West Regent Street, GlasgowSpaces in West Regent Street, Glasgow

“We are delighted to expand in Brighton, continuing to support residents as they seek ways to work productively and flexibly.”

IWG’s two current sites in Brighton have seen a 35 per cent increase in usage over the past six months, the company said.

The newest office is a “key milestone” site in the business’s strategy to convert disused, city centre retail units into “vibrant” work spaces.

“As more people are choosing to work in ways that suit their lifestyles, prioritising the importance of convenience and flexibility, IWG is further expanding to meet this demand, and plans to open 1,000 new centres in 2022 alone,” a spokesman said.

An opening date for Spaces in Churchill Square has not yet been confirmed.