Royal Opening of Millom Network Centre by HRH The Duke of Kent
03-07-07
HRH The Duke of Kent flew by helicopter into Millom on Tuesday 3rd July 2007 to open the new Millom Network Centre.
The Network Centre was built with financial assistance from a variety of sources and acts as a vital business beacon for both new and existing businesses. Set mid-way between Barrow and Whitehaven, the Centre not only provides the business and political half-way-house in this area, but also provides a practical venue for fledgling local businesses. The opening coincided with the partnering of major training providers based from Millom Network Centre: Adult Education, Learn Direct and Furness College.
Views of the Duddon Estuary and the local mountain, Black Combe, are the stunning backdrop for this Centre that houses top quality office facilities, training courses, conferencing and business advice. The Network Centre also provides a crèche for the children of its users.
The Duke was given a guided tour of the premises and met many of the benefactors and service providers involved. At the end of his tour, the Duke commemorated the opening of the Centre by unveiling a plaque to mark the day. Jamie Reed MP for Copeland said "I have visited the Centre and I am impressed with the state-of-the-art facilities. I think this is one of the most important regeneration developments to have happened in this area for some time."
The Centre represents a major achievement for this largely economically depressed area and operates as a registered charity. It is a not for profit company. The capital costs of the building were assisted by grants from: Cumbria County Council, European Funding, North West Development Agency, Cumbria Waste Management Environment Trust Fund, Northern Rock Foundation, and the Cumbria Adult Education Services. Equipment funding was obtained from British Nuclear Group, Cumbria Regeneration Fund, CGP, West Cumbria Development Fund, Awards For All, the Hadfield Trust, NLDC, and Northern Rock Foundation
Royal Opening