Office Space in Cumbria

Why Choose Office Space in Cumbria? A Blend of Business and Natural Beauty

Cumbria, a county renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, including the Lake District National Park, is increasingly attracting businesses seeking a unique balance between professional life and an enviable quality of life. While often associated with tourism, Cumbria’s economy is diversifying, and the county offers compelling reasons to consider office space within its picturesque boundaries. From its improving connectivity and growing talent pool to its affordability compared to major metropolitan areas, Cumbria presents a distinct proposition for businesses of all sizes. This article explores the key advantages of choosing Cumbria for your business and provides valuable insights into navigating the local office market.

Connectivity and Accessibility: Bridging the Lakes and Beyond

While Cumbria might be perceived as remote, its connectivity is continually improving. The M6 motorway provides a crucial north-south link, connecting Cumbria to major cities like Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow. The West Coast Main Line serves several Cumbrian towns, offering direct train services to London and other key destinations. Furthermore, the proximity to Manchester and Liverpool airports provides access to a wide range of domestic and international flights. While travel times can be longer than from major cities, the quieter roads and less congested rail lines can offer a different kind of efficiency. This improving connectivity is making office space in Cumbria a more viable option for businesses with regional or national operations.

A Diversifying Economy and Skilled Workforce: Growing Beyond Tourism

Cumbria’s economy is broadening beyond its traditional focus on tourism. While tourism remains a significant contributor, sectors like advanced manufacturing, renewable energy, digital technology, agriculture, and the nuclear industry are experiencing growth. The presence of the University of Cumbria and other educational institutions plays a vital role in developing a skilled workforce, providing businesses with access to local talent.Furthermore, the growing emphasis on sustainable development and innovation is creating a positive environment for businesses to thrive. This diversification makes office space in Cumbria an increasingly attractive proposition for businesses looking for a unique and supportive environment.

Cost-Effective Office Solutions: Leased vs. Serviced – Understanding the Landscape

When searching for office space in Cumbria, businesses typically encounter a range of options, from traditional leased offices to more flexible serviced office spaces, though availability can be more limited than in large cities. Understanding the differences in cost, flexibility, and services is essential for making an informed decision.

• Leased Offices: Traditional lease agreements offer businesses greater control over their workspace and branding. However, they typically involve higher upfront costs, including deposits, legal fees, and fitout expenses. Lease terms are usually longer, typically ranging from three to five years or more, providing stability but potentially limiting flexibility. Monthly rental costs for leased office space in Cumbria can vary considerably depending on size, location, and condition. Expect to pay anywhere from £6-£14 per square foot per annum, excluding business rates and service charges.
• Serviced Offices: Serviced offices offer a more flexible and all-inclusive solution. These offices come fully furnished and equipped, with amenities such as meeting rooms, administrative support, and IT infrastructure often included in the monthly fee. Serviced office agreements are typically more flexible, with shorter lease terms available, making them ideal for startups, SMEs, and businesses seeking agile workspace solutions. While the per-square-foot cost might be higher than leased offices, serviced offices can often be more cost-effective when factoring in all the included services. Expect to pay from £140-£350 per desk per month, depending on location, size and provider. HOWEVER, THE AVAILABILITY OF DEDICATED SERVICED OFFICE SPACES MAY BE MORE LIMITED IN CUMBRIA COMPARED TO MAJOR CITIES. Co-working spaces and more flexible arrangements may be a more common option.

Estimated Office Costs in Cumbria (Illustrative Examples):

• Small Business (5-10 employees):
  • Leased Office (1,000 sq ft): £6,000 – £14,000 per annum (rent) + business rates + service charge + fit-out costs.
  • Serviced Office/Co-working (5-10 desks): £700 – £3,500 per month (all-inclusive) – AVAILABILITY MAY VARY.
• Medium-Sized Business (20-30 employees):
  • Leased Office (3,000 sq ft): £18,000 – £42,000 per annum (rent) + business rates + service
    charge + fit-out costs.
  • Serviced Office/Co-working (20-30 desks): £2,800 – £10,500 per month (all-inclusive) –
    AVAILABILITY MAY VARY.
• Large Business (50+ employees):
  • Leased Office (5,000+ sq ft): £30,000+ per annum (rent) + business rates + service charge +
    fit-out costs.
  • Serviced Office/Co-working (50+ desks): £7,000+ per month (all-inclusive) – AVAILABILITY
    MAY VARY.

Note: These figures are illustrative and can fluctuate based on specific requirements and market conditions. Thorough research and obtaining quotes from multiple providers are essential for accurate pricing information. It is particularly important to check availability of serviced office space, which can be more limited in Cumbria.

Why Cumbria Makes Sense for Your Business:

Beyond the cost advantages and improving connectivity, Cumbria offers a unique quality of life, with access to stunning natural beauty, a relaxed pace of life, and a strong sense of community. The balance between work and leisure is a key draw for many businesses and their employees.

Finding the Right Office Space in Cumbria:

Navigating the Cumbria office market may require more local knowledge and research. Engaging a local commercial property agent can be invaluable in identifying suitable properties, negotiating lease terms, and ensuring a smooth transition. Networking with local business organizations can also be helpful.

Conclusion:

Choosing the right office space is a critical decision for any business. Cumbria offers a distinct proposition, balancing affordability, improving connectivity, a diversifying economy, and an unparalleled quality of life. While the availability of traditional serviced offices may be more limited than in larger urban centres, the county provides a range of flexible options. For businesses seeking a unique location with a strong sense of community and access to some of the UK’s most beautiful landscapes, exploring office space in Cumbria could be a strategic and lifestyle-enhancing move. By carefully considering your needs and exploring the available options, you can find the perfect workspace to support your growth and achieve your business objectives.