Welcome To The May 2011 Newsletter

As summer approaches and the weather takes its usual turn, there is no doubt that we are seeing more activity within the market, but it remains patchy.

There are, however, several recent announcements that should influence the recovery.  The first meeting has just taken place of the new Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, fronted by an excellent Chair in Edwin Booth.  While there has been a lot of political posturing this is now a real opportunity to move forward and kick start the recovery.  The prospect of the return of Enterprise Zones should be welcomed as a catalyst for  the development of hitherto undeveloped strategic sites, some of which occupy the best locations in the area.

Last week Lord Heseltine visited Preston to promote the second round of allocations for the £1.4 billion Regional Growth Fund which is specifically targeted at businesses, economic growth and job creation.  The first round of bids was extremely popular and I would urge businesses and manufacturers to consider making a bid before the 1st July deadline.

On the specific development front, Blackburn with Darwen Borough Council are seeking a partner for the old market site as the newly developed market opens in The Mall shopping centre at the beginning of June.  Developer interest is high for the scheme, which is likely to include a food store, retail and offices with a car park. 

In Burnley Henry Boots extension to the central shopping centre has been given the green light, and Next and Primark are already signed up for almost half of the scheme.  St Modwen are beavering away on their scheme adjacent to the Weavers Triangle Conservation Area and have recently been granted outline planning permission to create up to 168 new homes, retail units, leisure facilities and office space in a £20 million scheme.

Caroline James
Senior Partner
Trevor Dawson

Latest News From Trevor Dawson

ALL GO IN BURNLEY Exciting few years ahead promised for the borough. Read more >

KEIGHLEY FORD Long standing client acquires further dealership in Keighley. Read more >

BUSINESS RATES – CAN MY LIABILITY BE REDUCED? Rating assessments are currently based upon 2008 levels of rental value. Of course, the market was much stronger in 2008 than it is now. Read more >

Opportunities

Prime Business Unit Comes to the Market on Shadsworth Business Park
A superb business unit suitable for manufacturing or warehousing is now available on the popular Shadsworth Business Park on a sale or lease basis.
Read more >

Wood Top Mill, Burnley
Mixed use development site available within an area of substantial regeneration in Burnley.
Read more >

Deals

Ladbrokes Opens New Blackburn Outlet
Ladbrokes Bookmakers have opened their second store in Blackburn on Northgate close to Marks and Spencer and opposite King George's Hall.
Read more >

Sale At Network 65
10,000 sq.ft. unit on Kestrel Court sold to long established furniture manufacturer.
Read more >