West Port is a leading manufacturer of high-performance timber windows and doors, based in Maryport, Cumbria. Established in 1997, the company has grown from a small joinery workshop into a nationally renowned manufacturing business. 

Today, West Port operates from a 175,000-square-foot, purpose-built facility, supplying products to a wide range of clients, including Center Parcs, public sector organisations, and luxury hotels across the UK.

To manufacture doors and windows on a large scale, West Port relies on state-of-the-art machines and technology. However, after more than 20 years of operation, some of its equipment had aged significantly, make it less productive and energy efficient. 

This impact on productivity was compounded in recent years by rising energy costs which placed further pressure on the business. West Port’s annual electricity bill has substantially increased. 

To address these challenges, West Port decided to upgrade some of its older machinery, starting with its CNC machine. One of the most important pieces of equipment to the fire door business, the CNC machine is used for making precision cuts in wood to produce doors. 

To help fund the purchase, West Port applied to a Cumbria Business Growth Hub grant scheme, funded by the Rural England Prosperity Fund, provided through Cumberland Council. After a straightforward application process, West Port were awarded £96,177.60 covering 50% of the costs of the machine. 

Now in operation, the new CNC machine is already having a huge impact on the business. It features a double bed loader, allowing work to continue seamlessly. While one door is being machined, the next can be loaded, ensuring continuous production. This feature, combined with the machine’s modern components, means it can produce more doors while using much less electricity.

With the support of this grant, West Port has ensured it can continue to meet the growing demand for its products, while reducing operational costs and energy usage.