A project that aims to support local communities in Cleator Moor has had a funding boost thanks to a West Cumbrian contractor.
Thomas Armstrong Construction is the main contractor on the Cleator Moor Town Deal Phase 3 Phoenix Court renovations and Cleator Moor Activity Centre projects.
As part of £15,000 social value funding, it is supporting an advice and guidance project.
Phoenix Enterprise Centre, with Citizens Advice Copeland, is set to deliver a new 12-month project Phoenix Advice and Guidance.
It will provide the support, resources and infrastructure required to support people to move forward and access opportunities.
- 200 unemployed, digitally excluded Cumberland residents will access their IT centre
- 30 unemployed, digitally excluded Cumberland residents will move into jobs
- 50 project users will be assisted with IT skills development
- 100 disadvantaged families (350 people) in financial distress will receive support with food or the cost of food whilst they engage with PEC or a partner towards an improved financial situation.
The project will start in September.
Joanne Crowe, executive director of Phoenix Enterprise Centre, said: “We are delighted that the main contractor of the Phase 3 Phoenix Court renovations and Cleator Moor Activity Centre projects has decided to support the next Phoenix Advice & Guidance project through meaningful social value funding.
“Thomas Armstrong Construction is a leading local construction and redevelopment company, and their genuine contribution will help future-proof essential support services for residents in Cleator Moor and the surrounding area.
“As PEC celebrates 40 years of supporting local businesses, it’s fitting to see a respected local company giving back and investing in the long-term wellbeing of our community.”
Brian Holgate, contracts manager (construction limited), Thomas Armstrong, added: “We are proud to support Phoenix Enterprise Centre’s Phoenix Advice and Guidance project with a donation of £15,000.
“This initiative aligns with our commitment to fostering community well-being and providing essential resources to those in need. We believe in the power of collaboration to create positive change and are excited to contribute to the project’s success.”
The PEC Phase 3 building in Cleator Moor is owned by Cumberland Council and operated by Phoenix Enterprise Centre (PEC) under a long-term lease.
The refurbishment of the building got underway in January this year and is being undertaken as part of the Cleator Moor Town Deal Revitalised Town project with around £1.3 million of works being undertaken.
Just off the Square, the works aim to increase the supply of high-quality, affordable office space in the centre of Cleator Moor.
Cumberland Council appointed Day Cummins Ltd from Cockermouth as principal designer and Thomas Armstrong as principal contractor.
The construction work is on track to be completed by the end of this year.
Find out more about the Phoenix Centre’s 40-year history here
Also part of the Revitalised Town programme is Cleator Moor Community Hub and Square public realm works.
The aim is to increase activity and footfall around the Square by bringing vacant and under-used buildings back into active use while creating an attractive new public realm. Uses will include a new cultural community hub and enhanced business space.
The Cleator Moor Community Hub will incorporate the library and old council offices. The two existing buildings will be joined by a new annexe that will house a café.
Public realm works will see improvements to the Square. Day Cummins Ltd has been appointed as principal designer for the project.
Cleator Moor Town Deal secured an award of £22.5m from the Government’s Towns Fund along with an additional £18.4m from match funders.
