By Matthew Legg

Last updated at 12:48, Monday, 07 December 2009

A firm of architects has become one of the first businesses in Cockermouth’s flood-hit Main Street to reopen.

The Green Design Group is also offering free meeting rooms to other companies in the town.

The firm is offering advice to business owners on the clean up process.

Tony Green, managing director said: “It is a natural reaction to get dehumidifiers, builders and contractors on site as soon as possible, but experience tells us it is crucial to take advice and plan for the future properly.

“Architect fees can be included as part of their insurance claim, which is reassuring as some people are not aware of the complex decision-making that is required when carrying out flood recovery operations.

“We can also provide help and advise on planning permission, listed building consents, building regulations approval and making arrangements for contractors to carry out the remedial work.

“In 2005 we were heavily involved in the Carlisle flood recovery, working on residential and commercial properties.

“One of the things we found was that underwriters like working with architects because they understand the marginal building decisions and they are happy to look at ‘betterment work’: things that will improve on existing buildings, if it has a long term benefit,” said Mr Green.

“This includes things like concrete floors and relocating electrics, and that is likely to be the case in Cockermouth too.”

For more information contact Green Design Group on 01900 822945.

First published at 11:24, Monday, 07 December 2009
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk