BEC brings the successful Blencathra Business Centre to market

Located about four miles east of Keswick at the former Threlkeld Quarry, the site combines historic stone buildings dating back to the 1860s with modern offices, workshops, storage, and light industrial space.

Over time, the centre has become a well-established base for local businesses, with demand remaining consistently strong and the existing units fully occupied for years.

That demand also led BEC to bring forward plans for the next stage of the site.

In July 2024, the Lake District National Park Authority approved proposals for 18 more units, allowing Blencathra Business Centre to grow from 25 to 43 and provide much-needed space for businesses in the area.

The site is now entering a new chapter, as BEC brings the freehold to market. The estate spans around 18,004 sq ft and includes approximately 68 parking spaces, with the existing business accommodation set against the dramatic backdrop of Blencathra and the Skiddaw range.

The story of Blencathra Business Centre reflects much of what we aim to achieve through our wider property portfolio: bringing sites into productive use, creating space for businesses to establish and grow, and supporting economic activity across Cumbria.

Michael Pemberton, Chief Executive of BEC, said: “Blencathra has been a really successful business centre for us and, more importantly, a successful home for the businesses based there.

“The fact that the units have remained in such strong demand over a number of years tells its own story. We also secured planning permission for a significant expansion of the site, which gives a future owner a real opportunity to build on what is already there.

“It is a fantastic location with a strong track record, and we’re pleased to be taking it into its next chapter.”

Blencathra’s history stretches back far beyond its life as a business centre. The original buildings formed part of the former Threlkeld Quarry and were used for flagstone production from the 1860s.

They were refurbished and extended in the 1990s, helping transform the historic site into the business premises we see today.

Immediately above the centre sits Threlkeld Quarry and Mining Museum, which continues to celebrate the area’s industrial heritage through its railway, historic machinery and visitor attractions.

Carigiet Cowen is now handling the sale, with offers invited in the region of £1.25 million for the freehold.

As BEC continues to deliver regeneration and economic development projects across West Cumbria, Blencathra Business Centre remains a strong example of how property investment can create long-term value for businesses and local communities.

We look forward to seeing the site continue to develop under its next owner.