Skip to main content

Clark Door Limited, a leading manufacturer of special purpose door systems based in Carlisle, last week officially opened its doors to its new £3 million research & development centre.

The state-of-the-art testing facility began construction in 2019, benefitting from the support of the Cumbria Local Enterprise Partnership (Cumbria LEP) and was designed to meet the needs of both Clark Door’s UK and International customers.

Although the facility completed construction in 2020, the opportunity to officially open the centre was delayed due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic. More than 18 months later, with a promising UK economic outlook, Clark Door felt it was the appropriate time to welcome guests to view this outstanding facility and officially declare it open.

The day offered an opportunity for those who work closely with Clark Door to see first-hand the scale of operation that goes into making this Carlisle manufacturer, a market leader. The grand opening day was a huge success and enjoyed by all who attended, with opportunities to network, understand the history of Clark Door and listen to a number of presentations and speeches.

Andrew Ashley, Managing Director of Clark Door, opened the ceremony by showcasing one of the company’s impressive doors, a 4-tonne acoustic sliding door purpose built for a film studio, before enlightening guests on the company and how the new facility has contributed significantly to the company’s growth.

The day saw local MP for Carlisle, John Stevenson, attend giving a speech outlining the credibility of Clark Door and its huge contribution to the local and national economy, defining the company as a remarkable example of the Government’s levelling up agenda. Clark Door’s HR Manager, Antonette Cullen then presented a video highlighting the apprenticeship scheme in place at Clark Door and explained how such investment has created a number of opportunities within the company as well as the local area.

Commenting on the event, John Stevenson said:

“It was a pleasure to speak at Clark Door to mark the opening of their state-of-the-art research and development centre today.

What a success story for Carlisle and a really great example of how private sector investment is a key contributor to the levelling up agenda.

The company’s journey of expansion is remarkable and they now export their highly specialised product to over 45 countries worldwide. A true testament to innovative and inspiring leadership and a focussed, committed and highly skilled workforce.”

The event concluded with Paul Ashley, Chairman of Clark Door and Jo Lappin, CEO of the Cumbria LEP, unveiling a commemorative plaque, marking the occasion with a number of impressive pyrotechnics to declare the R&D Centre officially open.

Speaking after the opening, Andrew Ashley had this to say:

“We were really pleased to officially open our R&D Centre today. The investment the company has made showcases our commitment to the area, our workforce, our suppliers and our valued customers. It was great to share this good news story with those on the day and look forward to a bright future for the business and our local community.”

To share in the success with Clark Door’s employees, the company hired a mobile fish and chip van in the afternoon. It was Clark Door’s way to recognise their continued hard work and contribution to the company’s growing business.