Britain's Energy Coast's (BEC) move to Cleator Moor has been welcomed by the town council and chamber of trade.

The company has announced it will move its headquarters to the town this year.

It has bought the old Trade Board building on High Street and is organising building work to make it fit for purpose, which is expected to be completed before the end of October.

Cleator Moor town council clerk Helen Gilmour said she was "delighted" with the news which will result nine members of staff moving from company's current home at Westlakes Science Park, which will be put out to rent.

"I think that's great that such a big company has chosen to come to Cleator Moor," she said.

"It's a prominent building which is right in the centre of town so it's nice that it is going to be well used."

The town's chamber of trade also welcomed the news and its chairman, Dave Farrell, said BEC's expertise and profile could be a boost for the town's economy.

He said there would be a small boost for the town's eateries such as Scoffs and Greggs, but he hoped BEC would work with the Town Team and chamber of trade to "promote" the town.

He said: "It's got to be a positive for Cleator Moor really because the company has significant resources and we hope they get on board with what the Town Team and chamber are trying to do with the regeneration of the town."

Mr Farrell pointed to several annual events such as the West Lakes Cycling festival and the Christmas lights switch on which are already supported by local businesses - and added that there would plenty of opportunities for BEC to get involved in future events.

BEC is a firm which specialises in operating, developing and regenerating property.

Michael Pemberton, its chief executive, said: “The purchase of the Trade Board building makes a great deal of sense to BEC.

“In the first instance it allows our HQ team to become a greater part of a Cumbrian community, increasing our direct engagement with those we serve. It also allows us to increase the footprint of our property portfolio and free up space that is in high demand at Westlakes.”

The move follows BEC’s transition to a fully commercial organisation earlier this year, when it stopped running business support projects and concentrated on developing its property portfolio.

Mr Pemberton added: “We are starting an exciting and sustainable chapter at BEC and the office move will provide additional space for our team to flourish.”