By Pam McClounie

Last updated at 13:12, Saturday, 27 October 2012

A sawmill in Carlisle is to close after 183 years.

Alexander Sawmills

The Alexandra Sawmills Ltd on Byron Street, off Caldewgate, will shut on Wednesday with the loss of 11 jobs, the News & Star understands.

The sawmill was founded in 1830 by the late Robert Creighton – a former mayor and freeman of the city – in the name of R and JR Creighton Ltd (Alexandra Steam Sawmills).

It is understood that many of the current employees have worked for the firm for more than 20 years.

Those who live and work in Caldewgate say they are disappointed to hear of the closure, the reasons for which are not yet known.

Castle ward Labour councillor, Willie Whalen, said: “Any jobs that are lost is a disaster. I used to use the sawmill when I worked as a joiner and it was good quality timber and excellent customer service.

“This is a big loss to Carlisle and it’s sad because the Caldewgate area appears to be on the up. Success was being created there but this has put a bit of a damper on it.

“This really is a blow to the city and shows what kind of a state the construction industry is in right now.”

Alexandra Sawmills was established as timber importers, merchants and slate merchants.

In 1929, the sawmill and most of the surrounding buildings, including stock, were destroyed by fire and as a result of this, the third generation of the Creighton family decided to sell the business.

In 1930, after 100 years of trading, the company was sold and began trading as The Alexandra Sawmills Ltd. In 2005, the timber yard, sawmill and offices were devastated by flooding, along with many other properties and businesses in the area.

The business was forced to close for three months to allow a massive clean up operation.

As a result of this the sawmill was totally refitted with brand new machinery and the offices refurbished.

Today, the company supplies both trade and retail customers, including large and small house builders, joinery manufacturers and DIY enthusiasts.

A spokeswoman for Alexandra Sawmills Ltd confirmed that the business was closing on Wednesday but no-one was available for further comment.

First published at 13:02, Saturday, 27 October 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk