In that time, it has grown into a vibrant hub – bringing together businesses, charities, food lovers, and visitors from across the region.
Over the past two years, Unity Place has become far more than a building. It has served as a stage for local events, a gathering place for community groups, and a base for almost a thousand members in the dedicated co-working space x+why, who choose to work and grow their businesses here. From championing charities to supporting grassroots organisations, its positive impact has been felt across the city.
As Unity Place marks its second birthday, here’s a snapshot of its impact in numbers:
· 1,030 hours of community hall use
· 250 sessions hosted for local groups and organisations
· 1,000 co-working members now part of the Unity Place community in x+why
· 857 events delivered, welcoming over 125 businesses into the conference and events spaces
· 37 organisations making use of the community hall facilities
· Support for a host of local charities including MK Food Bank, Alzheimer’s Society, MK SNAP, Camphill MK, Willen Hospice, Unity MK, and Cycling Citizens
From community initiatives and lively events to fostering start-ups and offering state-of-the-art coworking facilities, Unity Place has established itself as much more than bricks and mortar – it’s a place where people come together.
Highlighting the importance of the community hall, Steve Lazell, Secretary of Milton Keynes Neighbourhood Watch Association, said:
“Having access to the free community hall at Unity Place has been invaluable. It means we can bring together volunteers, coordinators, and partners in one central place - without worrying about the cost. That saving allows us to do more of what really matters: helping communities prevent crime and making Milton Keynes a safer place for everyone.”
In its first two years, Unity Place has also played a role in major citywide events, including the Milton Keynes International Festival, and during its anniversary month will feature prominently in the inaugural MK Tech Week.
To mark the occasion, Unity Place is inviting visitors to join the celebrations with:
· Exclusive offers from participating food & beverage outlets
· A social media competition with the chance to win special prizes
· A look back at key milestones and achievements from the past two years
“Unity Place was designed to bring people together, and two years on it’s incredible to see how the community of Milton Keynes has embraced it,” said Nathan Kennard, Centre Experience Manager. “From the charities we’ve supported to the thousands of people who have entered our doors, Unity Place is now firmly part of Milton Keynes’ story.”
With fresh events, partnerships, and community initiatives on the horizon, Unity Place looks set to continue its journey as a central part of Milton Keynes life for many years to come.
