Work begins on new £5m headquarters for manufacturer
Work has commenced on redeveloping a 28-acre site into the new headquarters for the commercial vehicle body and trailer manufacturer, Cartwright Conversions.
The £5m project at the former Belton Brickworks site in North Lincolnshire will create around 175 new jobs once complete.
Cartwright Conversions, which is a subsidiary of the Cartwright Group, currently operates out of premises in Hatfield, South Yorkshire.
After outgrowing this site, Cartwright Conversions agreed a £1.5m deal with PPH Commercial to buy the larger site, which is located between Belton and Epworth, in September 2018.
The deal comprised a 78,548 sq ft industrial complex on the 22.24 acre area. Cartwright Conversions also bought six-acres of adjoining land.
The company, which produces specialised vehicles like ambulances and security vans, has set a June deadline to complete the 10-mile move east.
Steve Shaw, managing director of Cartwright Conversions, said: “We’re delighted with the progress we’ve made in such a relatively short space of time. We’ve re-clad and modernised the whole place, we will create new entrances and refurbish the inside to make it feel modern and fresh.
“We’ve been working very closely with North East? Lincolnshire Council, who have been very helpful, and we’re thrilled to have successfully secured planning permission to redevelop the site and create a new purpose-built building.”
Shaw added: “It’s a fantastic location but the building was in desperate need of some love and attention. This has now begun and we’re confident the superb setting and location will bring our business many advantages.
“Hopefully, things will keep moving along nicely and we’ll be able to relocate in June. Our attention will then turn to phase two and building the new premises, which we will allow us to use this wonderful site to its full potential.”
Duncan Willey, the chartered surveyor who completed the deal for PPH Commercial, said: “It’s no secret that Cartwright Conversions are aiming to create around 175 new jobs over the next 18 months and I’m sure the final scheme will help them achieve their ambitious plans.
“This is a rare opportunity to create an excellent semi-rural-industrial development in a popular location. Hopefully, the scheme will help to shape their future success for many years to come because it would undoubtedly provide a massive economic boost for the Lincolnshire region.”
