An innovative Carlisle manufacturer has revealed plans for a £3m expansion, creating up to 20 jobs.

Clark Door, based at Kingmoor Park, is the market leader in specialist door systems – its bespoke products are installed in high profile sites including the Royal Opera House, media facilities and distribution centres internationally.

Work will start on its factory and office extension later this month, which will allow it to carry out research and development. 

Recently named an Export Champion by the Government, its products can be found in more than 40 countries. 

Andrew Ashley, managing director, said: “Thanks to the hard work of employees, support from customers, our mainly Cumbrian suppliers and local partners, the company has more than doubled its sales in the last seven years. 

“This has led to the decision to expand our facilities.

“British engineering has a great reputation globally, it is second to none.” 

The company said the major investment, backed by Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, would provide a springboard for future growth. 

The LEP provided £569,000-worth of funding for the project. 

Jim Jackson, Cumbria LEP deputy chairman Jim Jackson said: “Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership is delighted to commit Growth Deal funding to support this project.

“It is particularly pleasing that this contribution will help the company take advantage of new opportunities, expand its operating base at Kingmoor Park and create up to 20 jobs.

“It is another part of a major Growth Deal programme of investment that has been ongoing since 2015 to support Cumbria’s economy and to help our businesses to grow.”

Mr Ashley added: “Without the support of Cumbria LEP we would not have carried out this expansion project, their support and that of many others has made our vision possible. 

“The new facility is great news for the company, its many stakeholders including its employees, local supply base and the wider community.

“It will enable us to offer highly engineered world class products for multiple applications for buildings in the performing arts, film, TV, distribution warehouses and industry.

“Clark Door currently sells its products throughout the UK, the Middle and Far East, Europe, North and South America. This investment will provide a foundation for future growth through greater productivity and even better engineered products.”

Northern Powerhouse Minister Jake Berry believes the scheme is part of building an economy that’s fit for the future.

He said: “This is why I’m pleased to see £569,000 investment from the Local Growth Fund supporting Clark Door, so they can expand their business.

“Not only will this enable the company to increase capacity and create new job opportunities for local people, but it demonstrates how independent local businesses like this one ensure Cumbria and the Northern Powerhouse are recognised worldwide as excellent destinations for trade and investment.”

The development has also received support from Cumbria Chamber of Commerce, the Northern Powerhouse, Carlisle City Council, Carlisle MP John Stevenson and Colin Glover.

The project is being managed by Hyde Harrington and Flimby firm Thomas Armstrong has been appointed as the main construction contractor. 

The company was established in Carlisle in 1973 and moved to its current base in Kingmoor Park in 2005.