Historic West Cumbrian Mill Gets New Lease of Life

A long neglected industrial landmark in West Cumbria has been revitalised and welcomed a new commercial tenant, marking a significant boost for the local economy.
After an extensive 18 month restoration, React Engineering has officially moved its headquarters into the refurbished Flax Works in Cleator. The building, which dates back to the 1830s as a flax mill and later became the renowned Kangol hat factory, had stood empty and deteriorating since the fashion brand’s closure in 2009.
React, a leading project management and engineering consultancy with more than three decades of experience, relocated its team on 26 January. The company specialises in providing services across the UK, particularly within the nuclear sector, and also operates a satellite office in Warrington.
The transformation of the historic site into modern open plan offices was carried out in collaboration with Genr8 North of Carlisle. The project respected the building’s heritage while equipping it for contemporary business use. Managing Director Phil Redfern praised the development, noting that it not only preserves an iconic structure but also offers a flexible workspace that supports the company’s continued growth.
“We now have offices designed to foster collaboration and flexibility, anchored in the community and close to clients and partners,” said Redfern. He added that the privately funded renovation reflects how business led investment can deliver wide ranging benefits for both the economy and the local area.
The Flax Works will house not only React but also other professional services firms, including consultancy Prima Uno and recruitment specialist Clear north. A café operated by TEGRetail is also expected to open on the site in the coming months, adding to the revitalised hub’s appeal.
Mark Walker, director of Genr8 North and a native of the area, expressed pride in seeing the former industrial site given a second chance and playing an active role once again in West Cumbria’s economic life.
Clear north founder Davin Dhillon, whose team has moved from Westlake’s Science Park, said the relocation reflects his company’s commitment to the region and its workforce, most of whom are locally based.