CARLISLE'S Kingmoor Park has celebrated its 25th anniversary with an eye on ambitious plans for the future.  

The former Ministry of Defence site, commissioned for Royal Air Force operations, was developed in 1999 by local entrepreneur Brian Scowcroft with the support of Carlisle City Council and Cumbria County Council, turning it into the business hub it is today. 

Brian's emphasis on sustainability has influenced the park's evolution, particularly through collaborations with managing director Neil McIntyre, which includes the implementation of innovative projects on the park, including the ‘ModVillage’, Cumbria’s first shipping container business village, and a 13-acre solar farm that has significantly reduced the park’s carbon footprint. 

Kingmoor Park has also supported charitable causes within its time, particularly Carlisle Youth Zone. 

Looking ahead, it's a big year for the business park as they have been shortlisted to host a Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) factory for deployment in the UK, Europe, and the Middle East.

Carlisle stands to gain £1.5bn and thousands of jobs if it is the successor of the four selected. 

 It is expected the winner will be announced in the Autumn.

In the meantime, Kingmoor Park proceeds with the ‘K2’ project, a venture offering tailored workspaces for 21st-century industries.

At the celebrations, Brian Scowcroft was gifted a compilation of newspaper articles and pictures capturing their 25-year journey.At the celebrations, Brian Scowcroft was gifted a compilation of newspaper articles and pictures capturing their 25-year journey. (Image: Supplied)

K2’s uniqueness has already appealed to prominent firms like DPD, for whom a custom-built 62,800 sq.ft facility was completed in September 2023.

Neil McIntyre, managing director of Kingmoor Park, said: "Twenty-five years at Kingmoor Park marks a significant milestone.

"We've successfully attracted and supported numerous businesses and generated thousands of jobs through the development of the site.

"Looking ahead, we remain dedicated to advancing Brian’s vision, ensuring a lasting legacy of sustained employment and prosperity for Carlisle." 

The 25-year celebrations began with a dinner at Carlisle’s Rickerby Retreat.

Guests were treated to traditional tapas, floral arrangements by Vandella Flowers, a cake by Abby Warwick, musical performances by Scotty D and photos captured by Jenny Woolgar.

In honour of Brian's accomplishments, he was gifted a personalised book, a compilation of newspaper articles and pictures capturing their 25-year journey.