Hearse maker takes 52,000 sq ft in Wigan

Eagle Specialist Vehicles, a division of Wilcox Limousines, a manufacturer of hearses and limousines, is relocating from Bolton to a new manufacturing site in Wigan.

The car customisation and conversion business employs 62 staff and is moving its regional operation from Manchester Road, Bolton to the 51,880 sq ft unit at Stratus Business Centre, Swan Lane, Hindley Green, Wigan.

Wilcox Limousines is based in Chalfont St Peter, Buckinghamshire and was established 63 years ago.

The Manchester office of surveyor Colliers International advised on the deal on behalf of Cumbria-based investor Peter Stevens Estates.

Andy Backhouse, associate director at Colliers International Manchester, said: "We're happy to secure a ten-year lease for such a well-established business and the arrival of Eagle as the latest occupier at Stratus can only enhance its reputation as a key business location."

Richard Stevens, surveyor at Peter Stevens Estates, said Stratus Business Centre was now fully let. Other occupiers include Co-operative Funeral Services, Armour Home and Rockwell Automation.

Colliers International are joint agents for Stratus Business Centre with Littler & Associates and Miller Metcalfe.