Search on for Westmorland Shopping Centre buyer

WESTMORLAND Shopping Centre in Kendal, the home to 30 retailers, has been put up for sale after its owner went into administration.

Owner Ethel Austin Properties (Kendal) failed on March 25 with BDO business restructuring partners Sarah Rayment and Kerry Baily appointed joint administrators.

The company owns and operates the shopping centre which houses the retailers, as well as Kendal’s indoor market.

BDO says two shopping centre managers employed at the centre have been retained while a buyer is sought.

Rayment said: “The Joint Administrators are keeping the shopping centre open while a new owner is found – Kendal residents will be able to shop as normal and no jobs have been lost as a result of the administration.”

Meanwhile,Westmorland and Lonsdale Liberal Democrat MP Tim Farron has said he wants to help, and stressed the shopping centre and its outlets should remain open while the search for a purchaser continues.

“It is vital to say that the centre, indoor market and all the outlets remain open – they are not affected by this announcement,” he said.

“I am incredibly confident that a buyer can be found for the centre which is at the heart of Kendal’s high street.
 
“I am keen to work with the administrators and the staff to ensure its success in the future.”