Longridge Timber builds on success with expansion to Clitheroe

Family-owned Longridge Timber has opened a third location in Clitheroe, at Twin Brooks Business Park, with the help of leading North West law firm Napthens. 

The timber merchant, which launched in 2007, imports premium quality structural grade timber that is used in projects across the North West. The business is continuing to grow after opening its second location in Preston in 2018.  

Expansion of the business into Clitheroe will immediately create three new jobs, with Longridge Timber hoping to employ local people for these positions. This third location which opened its doors in January 2021, is already proving popular with local tradespeople. 

John and Sue Cornthwaite, owners of Longridge Timber, appointed Matthew Parr, associate solicitor in the commercial property team at Napthens to advise on the purchase of the space in Clitheroe.  

Matthew Parr explains: “Having opened its second premises in Preston just a few years ago Longridge Timbersaw another opportunity in East Lancashire. The business owners, John and Sue, had observed that more and more customers were working across Ribble Valley and East Lancashire, and we were happy to advise in connection with the opening of the new site in the area that would enable the business to support its clients across the whole of the county. 

“The nature of the business presented some specific requirements, such as the amount and type of space needed and necessity for proximity to other businesses, such as builder merchants. With the opening of two new premises in just three years, it’s clear Longridge Timber has strong growth ambitions and we look forward to advising them again in the future.” 

John Cornthwaite, managing director at Longridge Timber, adds: “I’ve worked with Napthens for my entire business life and from day one they’ve demonstrated a clear understanding of our business and the way we like to operate. Throughout the process of identifying and securing this new location, they played a key role and we are confident this new base will serve our business needs exactly.

“In what has been a difficult year for many, I am proud that with this move we are able to create new jobs for local people in the area. We have ambitions to continue expanding and look forward to working with Napthens and its commercial property team again in the future.”