Portergate Development – the company behind an ambitious £18 million regeneration project in the heart of Preston – has appointed top creative consultancy The Chase to its marketing team.
Brand expert The Chase which has offices in Preston and Manchester is working with the Portergate team on ideas for its stylish Friargate mixed-use development.
And Portergate chairman Anthony Jackson, says the appointment of the award-winning creative agency is part of its pledge to utilise the skills of as many local companies on the landmark scheme.
Preston-based builder the Eric Wright Group is now on site working to construct the development which is set for completion next year.
The transformation of the strategic, but run-down 1.5 acre site will bring three new retail premises and the creation of a 244 bedroomed building aimed at providing boutique hotel-style accommodation to students at the nearby University of Central Lancashire (UCLan).
Part of that high-quality accommodation on offer is also aimed at post graduate students at the university and apprentices and key workers in Preston’s high-tech manufacturing sector and new Enterprise Zone.
Anthony Jackson said: “We are delighted to bring on board the team at The Chase, who have impressed us with their vision and drive.
“We’re creating something really special here in Preston and we wanted to work with creative marketing people who can capture the real spirit of this regeneration project and showcase it to the local community and key audiences.
“Our aim is that our Friargate scheme will play a major role in reviving the area – we are building for the future and we want our marketing and brand work to deliver that message.”
He added: “We are also firmly committed to using local companies on this project. The Chase, with offices in Preston and Manchester, firmly fits that bill.
“We went through a detailed and thorough process to ensure that we have appointed the very best firm to help us in raising awareness of this important development for Preston.
“We are very excited by the initial work they have done. It is a case of watch this space.”
The Chase, said: “This is a fantastic project to be working on, in the city where we are based.
“Portergate’s Friargate development is breathing new life into a historic part of Preston, and our work with their team aims to highlight that in a vibrant way. We’re really looking forward to being part of the team.
Anthony Jackson added: “Once completed, Friargate will provide boutique hotel-style accommodation, not only for students but also for young key workers in the city, where we believe there is a real demand for this type of living space.
“Our aim throughout the project is to play a major role in transforming the fortunes of the area and our hope is that our development and commitment will encourage further investment.”
The aesthetically pleasing shop and apartment complex has been designed around open garden areas while being conveniently in the heart of the city, only a short walk from the University of Central Lancashire.
