Member Article

North East activity centre opens creating 34 jobs

North East-based children’s activity centre, Fun Shack, has opened a second centre creating 34 new jobs, following a seven figure funding package from Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking.

Fun Shack was founded in 2002, after co-owners Stuart and Georgette Freeman were inspired to open a large-scale children’s activity centre whilst on a family holiday in America.

On their return the couple decided to launch the business with Stuart’s brother Craig and sister-in-law Andrea, refurbishing an 18,600 sq ft unit in Seaham.

As a result of the success of the first site the family decided to expand the business further, purchasing and renovating a second, 30,000 sq ft, building in Stockton.

After becoming dissatisfied with a previous banking partner, the Freemans were introduced to Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking by Bill Rippon from Rippon Financial Management.

The bank then provided the business with a commercial loan through the Funding for Lending Scheme (FLS).

The bank also arranged for the business to receive a six-figure grant through the government-backed Regional Growth Fund (RGF).

The RGF helps companies that can demonstrate job creation in the North East and across the UK, to fund projects and programmes that are using private sector investment to create economic growth and sustainable employment.

Work began on the building in December 2014, and the centre now boasts a 70 ft slide, laser gun area, climbing frame, go karting track and a 36 sq ft pirate ship – complete with cannons.

Stuart said: “When we visited America we were amazed by the scale of the children’s activity centres and noticed that there was nothing that compared in the North East of England.

“At the first centre we worked hard to include a variety of interactive obstacles and activities, however as our ideas got bigger we found that we were often limited by the size of the building.

“The new centre now realises the full scale of our vision, with a range of stimulating and fun activities that suit children of all ages.”

“The support provided by Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking has been integral to the business’ expansion.

Senior business development manager at Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking,Tony Latham, said: “When the Freemans approached us with plans for expansion, we immediately recognised that it was a unique business that had the potential to flourish in the North East.

“We are dedicated to supporting small businesses like Fun Shack, and as part of the Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking SME Charter, we have pledged to help 100,000 new businesses start up in 2014.”