BERMUDA'S first free-standing, self-storage facility opened its doors this week thanks to two entrepreneurs who jumped at the opportunity.

Bermudians Andrew Lewis and David Bull partnered together on the joint venture Bedrock Secure Self Storage, a facility that allows people 24-hour access to self-storage compartments for their belongings.

The pair purchased the 1.5-acre property, located at 12 Ferry Road in St. George's, from the Shell Company of Bermuda in 2006 with the intention of building warehouses. However, they altered their plan to also include self mini-storage after their travels to the U.S. and Canada.

"We both do a lot of travelling so I've always had this idea in mind," said Mr. Holmes, who has been in the construction industry for 25 years with AJ Enterprise Limited. "I saw how popular the mini self-storage concept has become in the U.S. and knew we had to do something like that in Bermuda. Obviously, though, on a smaller scale."

The men, who met on a past project in 2001, saw the increase of smaller homes being built and lack of storage space for families and small businesses.

"There are a lot of condos being built in Bermuda," explained Mr. Bull, a contractor in the fuel industry, including fuel tank installations.

"This type of facility is based on the American and Canadian self-storage style with 24-hour access and is very user friendly."

Construction of the two mini-storage buildings began in March 2008 complete with 27, 120-square foot storage units. The facility has 24-hour, swipe-card access; 24-hour camera surveillance inside and outside the buildings and electric fencing. Fourteen units are also climate controlled.

"We thought the idea would be good for Bermuda, it's a new concept. Somewhere for someone that has a home or condo can rent a space for their things and have 24-hour access to it. You just can't find that type of service in Bermuda," said Mr. Lewis. "And, in terms of security, we probably have more security than they do at Fort Knox."

The company is currently offering short and long-term rental agreements with tiered pricing. Rentals can come in various time blocks including yearly, one to three months, three to six months and six months to a year.

They are also offering a special rate that includes one free month if renters sign up for a full year.

Mr. Bull believes that Bedrock Storage will also be a boon for small businesses.

"Small companies that need storage would also see the benefit of the units to keep their tools and supplies," he said. "For the businesses with one or two people that need the extra space, this is a great option for them."

Mr. Lewis added that people who are renovating their homes can use the facility to store building supplies instead of keeping it under a tarp in the backyard.

"It's a really state-of-the-art facility," he said. "Our buildings are free-standing and built from solid concrete featuring with magnetic locks and light-weight, roll-up doors.

"Anyone - old or young, man or woman - can use it."

Should the new venture prove to be successful, Mr. Lewis and Mr. Bull are looking to expand their offerings.

"We have the capacity to double in size if the business takes off," said Mr. Lewis.

"We are starting to rent units already, and renting quickly."

For more information on Bedrock Secure Self Storage, call 535-5550 or email Andrewbedrock-storage.com