A contractor has been appointed to help transform a former scaffolding depot in West Cumbria.
Social impact property developer BEC had appointed William King Construction as the principal contractor for its Revive project in Mirehouse, Whitehaven.
Based at the former Focus Scaffolding site on Meadow Road, Revive is a regenerative initiative focused on upcycling, skills training, and will aim to provide essential household items to those in need. It also hopes to create employment and training opportunities for the local community.
The facility will house three workshops and a showroom.
BEC said a vital aspect of Revive was its commitment to supporting those in vulnerable situations.
With funding support from the local authority, the programme will provide furniture and essential household items to homeless families, individuals escaping domestic abuse, and rough sleepers transitioning to stable accommodation.
Emma Williamson, BEC’s community impact manager, said: “This is an incredibly exciting programme that will deliver substantial benefits and opportunities for our community.
“In phase one, we expect to create four jobs initially, and phase two will enable many more residents to develop their skills in furniture restoration and beyond.
“There is a pressing need for low-cost and free furniture for those facing financial difficulties. This initiative is an ideal local solution to address that need.”
William King, managing director of William King Construction, added: “The Revive programme will transform the old Focus Scaffolding building in Mirehouse into a vibrant community initiative dedicated to upcycling furniture and household items – something we are proud to help bring to life.
“As a local SME, working on projects that positively impact our community and wider area is always one of our top priorities. Revive improves local people’s skills, reduces social isolation, and addresses social, economic and health inequalities.”
The Revive programme will be delivered in three phases.
It will begin with collecting and donating furniture to individuals and families in need, helping to provide essential items to those facing hardship.
Then it will introduce furniture restoration training, allowing residents to learn practical skills and develop valuable craftsmanship.
Finally, a care and repair hub will be set up – a space where people can fix items, connect with others, and help tackle social isolation.
Work is scheduled to begin this month, and the Revive hub will open its doors this autumn.
