Bats Found In Derbyshire Furniture Store

Press Release • Nov 15, 2013

A colony of 80 bats held up work on a Derbyshire furniture store for 8 weeks

Online, November 15, 2013 (Newswire.com) - Bosses at a Derbyshire furniture company were dismayed when the discovery of a colony of bats meant work had to stop and their opening delayed.

Authentic Furniture, which makes furniture including reclaimed wooden tables is based in Peak Shopping Village, not far from the historic Chatsworth House.

The showroom, which has finally opened was due to open 8 weeks earlier than planned but whilst renovating the unit they found bats in the roof.

Bats are protected by law and cannot be handled by just anyone. Authentic Furniture, which specialises in well-crafted pieces had to get in touch with Natural England.

Natural England is the government's advisor on the natural environment throughout the UK.
"One end of the building was shut down by Natural England," said the company's Managing Director Tim Lowry.

"We had about 80 in the roof. The bats migrate so they've gone now but they will come back. They're in the gap between the roof tiles and our ceiling.

The store was finally granted a licence on 16th October which allowed work to continue and the shop front could be fitted.

Tim Lowry said they were excited to be working from a base in Derbyshire. The Peak District shopping outlet has free car parking and the company's workshop is nearby too.

"We are making furniture the old way," said Tim.

"Five to 10 years ago people would be happy to buy cheap and replace but people are now looking to buy and keep it. It's all about people wanting to have good quality furniture. Our wooden furniture won't date, they're never going to fall apart and they have a 20 year guarantee".

"We offer a modern twist on classic pieces like Chesterfield Sofas and Wing Back Chairs."

All timbers used are sourced in Britain, something which Authentic Furniture is very proud of.