08-07-2025
BEC appoints café manager for LEVELS hub in Whitehaven
SOCIAL impact property developers BEC have announced the appointment of Louise Murphy to operate the cafe in a new digital and gaming hub.
LEVELS is being launched in the former Whittles furniture store in Whitehaven town centre and is due to open in late 2025.
The £4.1 million redevelopment initiative is designed to create new opportunities around digital and creative careers by bringing esports, virtual reality, immersive education and training, and a vibrant social café experience to the heart of the community.
As a local social enterprise champion and founder of Calderwood Coffee, Louise brings a unique blend of entrepreneurial spirit, lived experience, and a community-focused approach.
Her coffee venture, developed in partnership with Time to Change West Cumbria, sources ethically traded beans that are roasted locally by Shiloh Coffee Roasters. All profits are reinvested into supporting individuals affected by homelessness and poverty in the region.
Louise is excited about the future, she said: 'LEVELS café will be focused on local flavour and local impact. We'll be serving up fantastic food and beverages from local suppliers, alongside my unique Calderwood Coffee, which proudly supports a local not-for-profit organisation. It's more than just a café; it's a place for connection and community and is part of such an exciting development.
'Time to Change was there when I needed them; launching Calderwood Coffee was my way of giving back. I'm looking forward to being part of the BEC team and bringing people together in the centre of Whitehaven - whether gamers, families, or professionals.'
Louise will create a vibrant atmosphere in the café, situated on the ground floor, which will offer local produce and provide guests with the opportunity to observe gaming and VR demos and e-sports tournaments through spacious viewing areas and screens.
Michael Pemberton, chief executive of BEC, added: 'We're thrilled to welcome Louise to the LEVELS team. Her enthusiasm and commitment align with LEVELS' mission to ignite community connection in Whitehaven.
'This development will be one-of-a-kind and will be a strong signal that BEC, our partners and West Cumbria are serious about the future, our young people and regeneration.'
LEVELS sits in the Grade II-listed building on Duke Street and is funded by Sellafield Ltd SiX, as well as BT and BEC themselves. The hub will feature an esports arena, VR and immersive zones, editing and recording studios, and digital training spaces for schools, colleges, and the wider community.
BEC specialises in regenerating landmark sites for the benefit of the community and the local economy.
LEVELS is a cornerstone of BEC's broader vision to inspire future generations and regenerate West Cumbria.
