Crosby Granger Architects Achieve Cyber Essentials Plus – With a Little Help from MB Digital

By Mark Foster | August 13, 2026

Big congratulations go out this week to Crosby Granger Architects, one of our longstanding clients. After all, this award-winning Kendal practice restores heritage buildings across the region. Their projects range from Muncaster Castle to Eshton Hall. Now, they’ve officially passed their Cyber Essentials Plus assessment. What’s more, we’re delighted to have supported them every step of the way.

What Is Cyber Essentials Plus?

Cyber Essentials is the UK Government-backed standard for business cyber security. Specifically, it covers the fundamentals. These include firewalls, secure configuration, patching, access control, and malware protection. However, Cyber Essentials Plus goes further still. Instead of a simple self-assessment questionnaire, an independent assessor tests your kit hands-on. As a result, this proves your controls actually work. In other words, they’re checked in the real world, not just on paper.

For example, Crosby Granger work with some very prestigious clients. These include the National Trust, Historic England, and major UK heritage estates. Because of this, that extra layer of assurance really matters. In short, it’s not a tick-box exercise. Rather, it gives clients, partners and insurers real proof. Above all, it shows their data stays properly protected.

Our Journey Together

To begin with, our team worked closely with Chris Granger and his team. First, we secured their core Cyber Essentials certification back in June. Then, straight after that, we moved into Plus. Meanwhile, we also strengthened their antivirus protection. Next, we rolled out 2FA on email accounts. After that, we got their servers and devices assessment-ready. Throughout it all, importantly, we caused zero disruption to a busy practice.

Eventually, our partners at Citation Cyber carried out the assessment. It wrapped up on 6th August. In the end, the result came back loud and clear: pass. As Chris summed it up best: “Couldn’t have done it without you all! Thank you. I might even have a cheeky shandy. Cheers guys!”.

Why Cyber Essentials Plus Matters

Overall, here’s what this certification delivers for any business:

  • Firstly, it proves your defences work. An independent assessor tests them, rather than just ticking boxes on paper.
  • Secondly, it builds trust. As a result, clients, partners and supply chains gain real confidence. This counts for a lot on public sector or high-profile work.
  • In addition, it reduces cyber risk. The assessment catches and fixes real gaps. For Crosby Granger, that meant stronger antivirus and 2FA.
  • Finally, it can lower your insurance premiums. Increasingly, it’s also a requirement for tenders and contract work.

Thinking About Cyber Essentials or Plus for Your Business?

Whether you’re just starting out or ready to go further, we can help either way. Above all, we make the whole process simple and stress-free. So, get in touch with the MB Digital team today. Just call 01539 731681 or email Sales@mbdigital.co.uk. From there, we’ll gladly talk you through it.

Once again, well done to Chris, Chloe and everyone at Crosby Granger Architects.

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