Fire damaged Friars Mill opens following £7.1m restoration

An 18th century old factory in Leicester has opened its doors for the first time today after a £7.1m restoration.

Friars Mill includes the former Donisthorpe factory, which was badly damaged by a fire in July 2012. The site had stood empty since 2005.

The site has now been handed over to the East Midlands Chamber, who are looking for businesses to base themselves there.

Friars Mill after 2012 fire Credit: Leicester City Council

City Mayor Peter Soulsby said:

Leicester City Council restoring Friars Mill Credit: Leicester City Council

The £7.1million redevelopment of Friars Mill was brought back to life by Leicester City Council.

It was part-funded by an award of up to £3.9m from the European Regional Development Fund.

It provides 25,000sqft of modern, managed workspace, with units ranging from 600sqft to 1,950sqft, along with meeting rooms, breakout spaces and a reception area.

Friars Mill Credit: Leicester City Council

Chamber Chief Executive Scott Knowles said:

Newly refurbed Friars Mill Credit: Leicester City Council