Cumbrian leisure operator will use £4m support to expand its Essex marina village

Banking giant, HSBC UK, has provided a £4m funding package for Cumbria-based leisure operator Lakeland Leisure Estates to expand and improve its premises in Essex.

The family-owned business acquired Roydon Marina Village in an eight-figure deal, supported by HSBC UK, in June, 2018.

The marina is close to the northern outskirts of London and the 56-acre site was the firm’s first foray into the South East of England.

HSBC’s latest support will go towards developing new amenities and facilities to host more than 168 wide beam canal and river boats.

Phase one of the redevelopment is on track to be completed by March 2024.

It will introduce new wide beam and narrowboat moorings, as well as cutting-edge composite anti-slip walkways for safety and ease of access.

Additionally, the business will create a brand new facility building, complete with bathrooms, laundry and Elsan services for boaters. On-site electric vehicle chargers will be installed, alongside new recycling bins and an improved, resurfaced access road to the marina.

Phase two will feature the construction of a state-of-the-art slipway and boat yard. This will give boaters access to a fully equipped area for maintenance and repairs.

Lakeland Leisure Estates currently owns a range of holiday parks, hotels and marinas across the UK. The Roydon Marina Expansion is the newest addition to its portfolio and is set to increase turnover by £1m.

Managing director, Mark Morgan, said: “I’m very excited for the expansion at Roydon Village Marina.

“The location has excellent transport links, based just 30 minutes from Liverpool Street station and Stanstead airport, helping the site continue growing as a popular leisure destination.

“The redevelopment and new state-of-the-art facilities will provide an attractive base for boaters and further improve the experience for those wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.”

David Edwards, global relationship director at HSBC UK, said: “Lakeland Leisure is a robust UK business and we’re excited to help with its latest expansion.

“We’re looking forward to the business continuing to improve facilities for UK holidaymakers and thrive as a leading company in the growing UK leisure industry.”