A family-owned Ayrshire business, Crawford Henderson Ltd, known for catering to illustrious clients such as Buckingham Palace, Windsor Castle, and The Houses of Parliament, is eyeing a former primary school in Maybole for its expansion plans. The now vacant St Cuthbert’s Primary School on Kirkland Street has been identified as the ideal location for the firm, which currently operates from Welltrees Street. In a bid to accommodate their ambitious growth plans, the company has submitted a planning application to South Ayrshire Council for a change of use and alterations at the former school.
The firm envisions relocating their operations to the former school building to enhance their production capacity and facilitate their growth objectives. With plans to increase their workforce from 13 employees to 20 over the next five years, Crawford Henderson Ltd aims to contribute significantly to the local economy by creating jobs within the Maybole community. Additionally, the company projects a sales growth from £1.1m to £2.5m in the next five years, which is expected to bring further economic benefits to the area.
The proposed plans for the former school building include refurbishments to accommodate production processes, office spaces, and storage areas. The company plans to showcase their production techniques and host visits from their prestigious clients in the upgraded premises. With a strong client base that includes blue-chip customers such as Diageo, Royal Collection Enterprises, National Trust for Scotland, and various museums and galleries, the company aims to continue its growth trajectory post-pandemic.
The proposal is currently under review by South Ayrshire Council, and a decision is anticipated by late December. If approved, the relocation and expansion of Crawford Henderson Ltd to the former St Cuthbert’s Primary School could mark a significant milestone for the company and the local economy in Maybole.
In conclusion, the potential transformation of the vacant school into a thriving business hub signifies a positive development for both Crawford Henderson Ltd and the Maybole community. By leveraging the historic building for modern business operations, the company stands to not only expand its production capacity but also create employment opportunities and economic growth locally. This strategic move aligns with the company’s trajectory of success and underscores its commitment to innovation and community development.