Jeweller aims to help economy with new site

A family firm hopes its expansion plans will make a big impact on the local economy – helping tourism, creating jobs and benefitting education.

CW Sellors has submitted a planning application to Derbyshire Dales District Council to create the CW Sellors Jewellery Design Centre of

Excellence at Carsington Water.

The business, which has been going since 1979, plans to move its workshops and headquarters from its current location in Ashbourne.

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The purpose–built premises would be built on land north of the Knockerdown Inn, Knockerdown.

It would include improved and enlarged metal and stone workshops with additional aspects including retail spaces, flexible exhibition spaces, tea room and an auditorium to be used for educational activities.

CW Sellors founder and director Chris Sellors commented: “The plans aim to meet tourism needs, government policy and the businesses requirements.

“The Derbyshire Dales is one of Britain’s most scenic areas and is situated within two hours’ drive of almost half the UK population plus boasts over five million tourist visitors per year – thus the perfect location for a sustainable tourist attraction.

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“Our intention is to enhance visitors experience in Derbyshire and offer something truly unique and are a result of years of preparation in building the business and working to educate consumers about British manufacture and the importance of it.”

The new project is expected to create around 20 new jobs for local people, the firm will also be concentrating on training and development.

The company claims the design of the building will compliment the surrounding areas and be sympathetic to the countryside.

The plans incorporate hedgerow and existing tree retention and enhance them through improved management of the area.

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The plans were launched to the international jewellery industry at the annual International Jewellery London event at Earl’s Court, where Derbyshire Dales MP and Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughlin has a chance to look over them.

He commented: “I was delighted to learn more about Sellors’ ambitious project.

“I believe it has the potential to offer a diversity of employment in a rural area.

“The Roundhouse at Hathersage has proved to be a venue that brings visitors from a wide area to view manufacturing.

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“I believe Sellors would be at least as attractive to people, with its modern designs.

“The company is to be commended for its vision and I wish the scheme every success.”

Mr Sellors added: “We are delighted that Patrick is so supportive of our plans, seeing the benefits not only for the local economy but also for Derbyshire nationwide and for British manufacturing as a whole.”

The company is hopeful that planning permission will be granted by the end of the year.

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To view the plans for the CW Sellors Jewellery Design Centre of Excellence, visit the planning section on the Derbyshire Dales District Council website, www.derbyshiredales.gov.uk, and search for reference number 13/00696/FUL.