Carlisle MP John Stevenson was welcomed to tour a new state-of-the-art facility by Managing Director Stephen Bellas and his team at Komatsu Forest team.

The facility, near Carlisle Airport, belongs to the forestry machinery manufacturer that has been established in Longtown for over three decades.

The company has recently invested £4 million in this new site which is the first-ever to be owned by a Komatsu Forest sales company.

This move signifies Komatsu Forest's commitment to customers, the UK forestry sector, Cumbria, and its employees.

The investment ensures the future security of 35 jobs at the company.

The significant investment project was launched in January 2023, with Cubby Construction taking charge of the build and major local firms Architects Plus and Donley’s Chartered Quantity Surveyors supporting.

Mr Stevenson voiced his approval during his visit.

He said: "This is the first global Komatsu Forest Sales Company to own its own facility entirely, putting firmly established roots in the Carlisle area.

"Not only that, the management has a strong commitment to using local people and businesses both in the build and their ongoing work.

"A real positive good news story for the area."

The new facility includes a two-storey, timber-clad office and a modularly designed workshop capable of housing three machines simultaneously in the main service bay.

It is also equipped with a sophisticated exhaust fume extraction system, meaning machines can be running inside without putting the health of engineers at risk.

The site features solar panels and electric car-charging points, reflecting Komatsu's commitment to sustainable practices.

Stephen Bellas, Managing Director at Komatsu Forest UK Ltd, expressed his enthusiasm for the new property.

He said: "Our investment in a new facility demonstrates our commitment to providing a sustainable business for the future of our employees, and outstanding service to our customers throughout the UK."