A TOWN’S key site is set to be redeveloped after being bought by the council – and many are looking forward to its "bright and vibrant future".

Copeland Borough Council is thrilled to have purchased Leconfield Industrial Estate, and has outlined its ambition for the major Cleator Moor site.

After being supported in the purchase by Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership, the council plans to develop the site, and work with new and existing tenants to create jobs and business opportunities within the community.

Mike Starkie, Mayor of Copeland, said: “This is a significant day for Copeland Council and for Cleator Moor, and signifies our ambition for the town, residents and business community.

“Leconfield Industrial Estate has been underutilised for many years, but now under public ownership, the much-needed redevelopment can take place.”

If fully developed, the site could provide employment for between 500 and 800 people.

Copeland Council has engaged Avison Young, the global property advisory firm, to support the strategic and coordinated development of the site throughout the next five-to-10 years.

Mr Starkie added: “Our vision is that the town can become home to a number of new technology and engineering-related enterprises, along with associated skills and academic development organisations.”

Jim Jackson, Chair of Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership’s Investment Panel, said: “I am delighted that Copeland Borough Council’s purchase of Leconfield Industrial Estate is now complete, and that regeneration can begin.

“Cumbria LEP supported this project by providing £1.14m of Growth Deal funding, which will help deliver the developed vision for Cleator Moor.

“The purchase of the Leconfield Industrial Estate brings it into public ownership, and means that development will be coordinated, aiming to maximise economic and social value.

“The acquisition seeks to the increase in the creation of new additional jobs and economic activity for Cumbria.”

Kayleigh Daniels, of REACT Engineering Ltd, is also delighted with the news, and said: “The Leconfield Estate has been home to many Cleator Moor businesses over the years, who have succeeded in spite of chronic under investment in the site, which has led to a continuous decline and significantly degraded infrastructure that is no longer fit for purpose.

“Bringing the site back into public ownership, with local partners who understand the potential and vision of the town, and who can remove some of the barriers currently constraining businesses, will hopefully be the first of many steps towards a bright and vibrant future for Cleator Moor.“