Raleigh, the British bicycle brand, has recently made the strategic decision to relocate to Durban House in Eastwood, Nottingham, after establishing its presence on Church Street in Eastwood for over two decades. This move represents a pivotal moment in the brand’s history and signifies a new chapter in its ongoing growth and development.
Located in the heart of Eastwood, Durban House holds great historical significance, having served as the former wages office for the local collieries where D.H. Lawrence’s father once worked. The property, which later became the D.H. Lawrence Heritage Centre, stands as a proud symbol of local heritage and cultural pride. It was a natural choice for Raleigh, given its deep-rooted ties to the area.
Working closely with Broxtowe Borough Council, Raleigh’s relocation to Durban House not only fulfills the council’s objectives of preserving the historical integrity of the property but also transforms it into a functional business space. This marks just the initial phase of a long-term collaboration between the Council and Raleigh.
Despite initial challenges in securing Levelling Up Funding for the project, Raleigh’s presence at Durban House has successfully addressed these issues. The Council, in partnership with UKSPF, has now identified new locations for community activities. Community projects such as the Gardening Group will continue to thrive in and around Durban House, with Raleigh’s unwavering commitment to supporting these initiatives beyond regular working hours.
Chris Slater, Managing Director at Raleigh, expressed his appreciation for the continued support and collaboration from Broxtowe Council, stating, “Raleigh’s rich heritage is deeply intertwined with the Borough, making it essential for us to stay connected to our local roots.” This sentiment was echoed by Milan Radulovic MBE, Leader of Broxtowe Borough Council, who highlighted the importance of supporting local businesses like Raleigh and maintaining job opportunities within the community.
The successful completion of this project was made possible through the support of the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and the contribution of local enterprises such as Wilborne Painting & Decorating Limited. This collaborative effort not only preserves the historical significance of Durban House but also paves the way for Raleigh’s continued growth and success in the bicycle business.
