Through invaluable funding from the Southampton Partnership and SEEDA, alongside support from Southampton City Council, the Arches studios project was born in 2004. The catalyst for this came from the city’s awareness that support was required to assist Southampton’s creative talent. By converting old storage arches under the historic Central Bridge an affordable and supportive environment has been created.

In February 2005 Arch 10 opened offering seven spaces, closely followed by Arch 8 in September, offering a further nine. The sites have since been expanded across Arches 7 and 4 to now offer space for 23 residents, alongside a high quality, hireable workshop.

The conversion and establishment of the Arches contributes to the city’s creative economy and marks a significant turning point in what Southampton offers those pursuing a career in the creative industries.