Kendal Mintworks to be new enterprise centre

WORK has started to create the first enterprise centre of its kind in Kendal town centre – and its name has been inspired by the town’s most famous product.

The MintWorks, at 124 Highgate, will offer modern, flexible office premises to help start-ups and small businesses grow and thrive.

The initiative is being led by Invest in South Lakeland, the Economic Development team at South Lakeland District Council (SLDC), which supports inward investment and economic growth.

The new name The MintWorks has associations with the world-renowned Kendal Mint Cake, and complements a growing portfolio of business premises in Kendal, such as The Factory, Pixel Mill and Bridge Mills.

Refurbishment of the long-empty prominent building in Kendal town centre has begun and The MintWorks is on track to open later in the year.

The refurbishment will include new front windows, car park improvements, and a full internal revamp and modernisation. The space will provide ten flexible offices of various sizes, as well as meeting and conference facilities for business events, skills training and networking.

Bringing 124 Highgate back into use, which previously housed the Connexions careers service, will help improve the local area and support Kendal’s high-street. The project will help provide an environment for businesses to grow and will directly support up to 25 jobs, with the possibility of more being created in the future.

There has already been a high level of demand for the units, with particular interest from digital, creative and high-tech firms. Invest in South Lakeland is also in talks with independent training organisations, local universities, business advisers and other partners interested in using the centre.

Cllr Jonathan Brook, SLDC portfolio holder for Innovation and Improvement, said:  “The name ‘The MintWorks’ links to historic associations with Kendal, but also importantly has a contemporary feel which evokes the spirit of the town. We feel this is representative of the vibrant business community and entrepreneurial spirit which exists here.

“The local business community has embraced the idea and these plans are a direct response to the increasing need for more high quality and flexible business accommodation in Kendal. Many businesses tell us they struggle to find appropriate office space in a central location, which is directly impacting on their potential for expansion.

“This project presents exciting opportunities to rural businesses, start-ups and micro-businesses that might be looking to branch out, expand or relocate to Kendal.”