The adverb ‘meanwhile’ is defined as the time before something happens or before a specified period end. For what is a somewhat flavour-less word, it has successfully captured an exciting, modern trend that has given businesses in the Midlands a lifeline.
Whether it be an empty plot of land, an unoccupied shop, or a development awaiting the approval of planning permission, there are a magnitude of reasons as to why space cannot fulfil its potential, and subsequently may go to short term waste.
Enter ‘meanwhile spaces’: the use of temporary arrangements between small businesses and land owner to occupy these opportunities for short term use, with the understanding to leave at an allotted time.
Currently in the Midlands, there are 290 warehouses, 654 retail properties, and 70 commercial land sites listed for rent as of July 2021. The pandemic and the restrictions that followed have not helped, leaving high streets and areas across the city centre to be sorry sights. Artists, businesses, innovators and entrepreneurs are now putting these areas to good use.
Across the city we have watched as empty spaces have provided outlets for restaurants, tailors, events, breweries, charities and factories. Derelict car parks have proven to be prime real estate for dining ‘al fresco’; retail plots have converted into gyms; and warehouses have enjoyed live music and large crowds when regulations have allowed.
The impacts of utilising meanwhile space cannot be understated. By injecting life into the area, a community can benefit from a mixing of people and cultures, being exposed to new food, music and leisure activities.
Meanwhile spaces also provide support to some of the economy’s most vulnerable businesses. Over the duration of the last 18 months, companies and their employees have faced furlough; restricted opening and closing times; limits on indoor and outdoor capacities; and strict social distancing. Some have not made it through the pandemic.
For those that have, meanwhile spaces have given them the flexibility and freedom to survive, and to thrive. Businesses popping up on short term leases in communities have been able to provide much needed jobs, whilst the temporary nature of the concept removes the stress and commitment to long term leases some business suffer. In doing so, the businesses, employees, and the greater community can feel better for it.
To communities in the Midlands, meanwhile spaces are acting as catalysts for driving social and economic prosperity. For each one used, there is a protective benefit to the community and its people. More money is being spent, more jobs are being filled, and business activity that wouldn’t normally be taking place, now is.
Now more than ever, businesses are required to be flexible and opportunistic. By utilising meanwhile spaces and remaining innovative and efficient, communities will bounce back post-pandemic better than ever this summer.
