A thriving new suite of units in a Cockermouth business park has been officially opened.
Mitchells celebrated the ambitious expansion of its business park with a range of guests, including Workington MP Mark Jenkinson and the chief executive of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership Jo Lappin.
The new development has proved so popular that all seven units have already been let to a diverse range of businesses which are now thriving in their new premises, including a gym run by the Crossfit athlete and war veteran Luke Reeson and a bakery.
Mr Jenkinson said “The opening of these new units represents a huge opportunity for entrepreneurs across the borough. "The units are already filling up with a range of businesses from caterers to gyms.
"I have no doubt that these attractive new units will provide a superb base for a number of new and fledgling businesses – as well as for those outlets that are looking to expand into new premises. "I am hopeful that this will prove to be a hugely successful venture not only for Mitchells as a well-established rural company, but for the wider business community. "I am very pleased that Mitchells were able to access Government funding through Cumbria LEP to support their aspirations and vision for the site.”
Mitchells’ board of directors first looked into the feasibility of the project back in June 2020.
Chairman Ian Powley said: "We recognised the need for new business premises in the Cockermouth area and knew we could make better use of the resources and space available next to our livestock mart. "Mitchells have had a very good year but we can’t afford to be complacent. Diversifying our business model by expanding the business park makes us more resilient to downturns in the economy and helps protect and strengthen Mitchells for the future.”
With the help of funding from the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (CLEP) and support from HSBC bank, construction started in October 2020. It was delayed by materials shortages due to Brexit and on-site labour difficulties due to Covid. The development was finally completed last October and has been fully occupied with tenants since January.
Businesses now operating from the new units include the gym Lake District Barbell run by Luke Reeson, Cumberland Stove Services, Cockermouth Kitchens, Cumbrian Baker, Derwent Groundworks, Carrs Billington Agriculture and Fulton Ltd trailer repairs which Mitchells hope will come in very useful for farmers visiting the livestock mart nearby. The opening was also attended by Mitchells’ former chairman Bob Watson, directors Stephen Revell and Ann Cummings and land agent Ian Wood.
The event included a tour of the new businesses on site followed by lunch provided by Mitchells’ Fairfield Restaurant.
New mayor: https://www.timesandstar.co.uk/news/20175718.new-cockermouth-mayor-andrew-keen-promote-town-council/
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