A Scunthorpe business is embarking on a £10 million expansion, creating a new commercial complex to widen its operations while inviting other companies to join it.
John Coopers Leisure, well-established in the trailer, caravan and motorhome sector, is to introduce a dealership as well as expand its offering in servicing, towing and camping accessories.
It aims to become a destination venue for the burgeoning market, with 35 new jobs anticipated across the site.
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A planning application has been submitted to develop more than six acres of land off the town’s Phoenix Parkway, at the entrance to Skippingdale Industrial Estate, with a dozen commercial retail units included alongside the facilities for the business. A high security vehicle storage compound for owners is also proposed.
John Cooper and son Joel are heading up the project, having bought the land from the local authority a couple of years ago.
Mr Cooper said: “Our business on Grange Lane North has seen expediential growth over the last few years and we have now outgrown our premises.
"We will be expanding our business to include a larger caravan / motorhome accessory shop, introducing motorhome sales, a motorhome and caravan secure storage facility and a larger workshop for repairs and servicing.
"We have been working closely with North Lincolnshire Council for several years and unfortunately Covid impacted greatly on moving things forward, however, we are very excited to now be in the position to push forward and make a start with the development."
A larger retail shop for accessories and spare parts will be complemented by a larger workshop for approved warranty work on leisure vehicles as well as dedicated bays for towbar fitting - with the business claiming to be the largest in Lincolnshire.
Mr Cooper said new motorhome sales will be conducted for “only the best manufacturers,” with new products and a franchise to add.
On the location, he said: “The industrial park is already very busy with lots of passing trade, however we feel that this development will also make this a 'destination area' with people travelling to take advantage of the services we will offer.
"This will be a welcome boost for all new and existing businesses on the Skippingdale Industrial Estate, as well as offering more choice for our local people. “Naturally with new businesses and business growth there will also be new employment opportunities."
A total of 40 roles are anticipated across the site, building on the firm’s current five, and Mr Cooper said interest in leasing the proposed 1,250 sq ft units has been “outstanding”.
If consented the build is planned to start in May next year.
John Coopers moved to Grange Lane North in 2006, the evolution of the family motor dealership and their passion for such leisure pursuits. A first motorhome was commissioned to be built in Grimsby by Mr Cooper’s father in 1981, having specialised in the sale of sports cars from a Messingham base.
The company has turned to leading Scunthorpe practice Keystone Architecture to develop the plans and handle the application.
Director Jon Bayley said: “It is ideal, a great site, a really sustainable location and has everything going for it in terms of a development of this nature.”
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