By Gillian Ellison

Last updated at 14:52, Thursday, 05 July 2012

A major scheme to redevelop the derelict Sekers plant in Hensingham has been delayed.

Pathfinding Commercial Ltd, of Nottingham, was behind a £6 million plan to build a care home and housing complex on the site of the former fabric factory with the creation of 160 jobs.

Jason Lucas, managing director, blamed the economic climate, particularly for housebuilders.

However, he said the company was still looking at options and hoped work would start on site in the next two years.

He said: “The main problem is the lack of bank funding as the majority of high street banks have closed their doors on development finance.

“We are looking at several different options in order to conclude the development of the scheme and this includes our original plan of our company building it out.

“If it was not for the current economic climate, the site would have been started, local jobs created or safeguarded and much needed accommodation created.”

He added: “We are striving to find a solution to the current economic problems and we are positive that a start on site will be made within the next 18-24 months.

“Unfortunately we are in the hands of the banks and the sooner the government sorts them out the better.”

Phil Greatorex, Copeland council’s executive councillor for regeneration, said: “As a council we would welcome that site being brought back into economic use and we would welcome an approach by potential developers, as am sure the landowners would, to take the site forward.”

First published at 11:24, Thursday, 05 July 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk