Across the UK, high streets are evolving. While some traditional shops have disappeared, new types of spaces are bringing energy back into village &t own centres — and coworking has become one of the most positive additions. In places like Hurstpierpoint, these shared workspaces are quietly transforming how people work, connect, and support their local communities.

Here’s why high street coworking is becoming such a powerful force for good.

A More Productive Way to Work — Close to Home

Working from home can be surprisingly distracting: the washing machine beeping, deliveries turning up, or simply the temptation to multitask. A dedicated coworking environment on the high street offers a welcome change of pace.

In fact, a recent study by Deskmag found that 74% of coworkers report being more productive after joining a coworking space. That boost often comes simply from the energy of working around others with purpose.

A high street coworking space gives workers:

• A calm, purpose-built space for focused work

• No exhausting commute, saving hours each week

• Easy access to shops and services nearby

Even one day a week in a coworking environment can reset your routine and improve your output.

Supporting Mental Health Through Everyday Connection

Remote work can be lonely. Many people miss the simple moments of human connection that happen naturally in shared spaces — the smile from someone at the next desk, the chat over a coffee, or the feeling of being part of something bigger.

Coworking helps by providing:

• Light-touch social contact

• A sense of belonging

• A refreshing shift in routine

As author Annie Dillard famously said, “How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives.”
Working a few days a month in a shared space can reshape the feel of your entire week — adding structure, motivation, and a sense of connection.

Bringing Life Back to Local High Streets

One of the quiet but meaningful impacts of high street coworking is the increase in daytime spending. Instead of travelling to city offices — and spending money there — remote workers become part of the local economy.

Coworkers often pop out for:

• A morning coffee

• Lunch or snacks

• Haircuts or beauty appointments

• Groceries and errands

• Gifts from local shops

This steady, reliable flow of footfall helps independent businesses thrive and keeps high streets vibrant.

A Stronger, More Connected Community

High street coworking brings people into village centres during times that used to be quiet. More people around means:

• A safer, more welcoming atmosphere

• Greater visibility for local exhibitions, talks, and events

• A sense of community life happening throughout the week

Some coworking venues also host cultural or social activities, adding even more richness to the local area — from art exhibitions to meet-ups and workshops.

Flexibility That Fits Modern Life

Not everyone needs a desk every day. Some people mix home working with occasional coworking, while others use it for meetings, Zoom calls, or days when they simply need a change of scene.

High street coworking provides:

• Space only when you need it

• A healthier balance between work and home life

• The structure of an office without the stress of commuting

It’s a modern, sustainable approach to work — benefiting productivity, wellbeing, and community life all at once.

High Street Coworking Benefits Everyone!

The rise of coworking in village & town centres is more than a trend. It’s creating:

• Better working days

• Happier, healthier people

• Stronger local businesses

• More resilient high streets

If you’re curious about trying high street coworking, drop in for a visit or book a desk for a day with us here at HurstWorks. A small change in working habits can have a surprisingly big impact — on you and on the community around you.