Northern Trust upgrades Blackburn business centre to attract more SMEs
Property developer Northern Trust has refurbished the Beehive Business Centre in Blackburn in an “extensive upgrade” it hopes will attract small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in East Lancashire.
A new reception area, a revamped communal breakout space, newly renovated restrooms, and flexible office suites designed to provide an inspiring environment, the company claims.
Northern Trust is owned by the Hemmings family whose late patriarch Trevor Hemmings was an industrialist, investor and racehorse owner. He also bequeathed his sons and daughter the ownership of Championship football club Preston North End.
Its directors include two sons of the late tycoon and his long term legal advisor Kathryn Revitt.
Donna Jackson, Business Centre Manager, said of the plans at Beehive: “This refurbishment is a testament to our commitment to provide an environment that is not only functional but welcoming. The new reception and breakout areas offer an ideal space for collaboration and interaction, creating a community feel that we know our customers value. The Centre is currently home to over 30 different businesses.”
Nick Hemmings, Regional Property Manager, added, “The improvements we have made at the Beehive Business Centre have been designed to reflect the professionalism, values and aspiration of its occupiers. The new reception, office space and communal facilities provides the perfect platform for businesses to make a strong first impression, whilst allowing for a collaborative, adaptable environment that fosters innovation and growth.”
Hemmings, who died at his home on the Isle of Man in 2021 at the age of 86, set up Northern Trust as a family-owned private company, in 1962, and developed a successful track record in property investment, development and strategic land promotion.
In the last set of accounts to the year ending March 2024 the business recorded a turnover of £61.2m, but following an investment property revaluation declared pre-tax profits of £79.7m.
The existing property portfolio extends to 9 million sq ft of industrial, trade counter and office parks, together with more than 4,500 acres of land throughout the UK, with circa 1,500 acres currently being promoted through the planning process for mixed use development.
