James’ Places Open Event Success

Lancashire-based hospitality group, James’ Places, is celebrating a successful open event at its new headquarters, Holmes Mill.

James’ Places hosted an open day to showcase its new offices in Clitheroe on April 5, attended by a number of local dignitaries including Ribble valley Mayor Joyce Holgate, as well as many councillors, suppliers and clients. In total some 50 attended.

The Mayor spoke of the importance of tourism to the area, and how Holmes Mill was already having in attracting both locals and day visitors to the town.

Group marketing manager Heidi Kettle said: “It was a great turnout, with representation from a wide range of stakeholders.”

After arrival drinks and canapés, the invited guests were taken on a tour of the new offices from where they were able to see a bird’s eye view of the new roof canopy currently being constructed on the Weaving Shed. This architect-designed new curvy roof will cover the Food Hall due to open in early summer.

Holmes Mill is already home to Bowland Brewery, the Beer Hall, which houses what is believed to be one of the longest bars in Britain, a function room, café, gelateria and shop.

Subsequent phases of the rejuvenation of Holmes Mill will include the Bowland Food Hall, as well as a 40-bedroom apart-hotel, gym, pool and urban spa. 

The whole scheme, expected to be finished by the end of 2018, will bring up to 180 new jobs to Clitheroe, and is expected to provide a welcome tourism boost to the wider Ribble Valley and Forest of Bowland areas.