The transformation of a former bank into a new arts and enterprise centre for the community of Millom and Haverigg has taken another step forward.

Planning permission has been granted for the £2 million scheme.

It will see work get underway at the property in St George’s Road to create a range of facilities including a cafe, maker’s market, small retail spaces, workshops and studios. It is part of the Reactivating Heritage Buildings project brought forward by Millom Town Deal which was awarded £20.6 million from the Government’s Towns Fund to help the town and its communities to thrive in the future. An additional £8.7 million was secured in match funding.

David Savage, Chair of the Millom Town Deal Board, said:

“This is great news for Millom and a big step forward for this scheme. This once in a lifetime investment includes projects which will provide huge benefits for the communities of Millom and Haverigg.

“The Arts and Enterprise Centre is an integral part of the transformation of a forgotten town into something quite extraordinary.

“This news further demonstrates the Town Deal is now starting to turn plans into a positive change for our community.”

The key highlights of the Arts and Enterprise Hub include:

· Some extensions to the property which are not in keeping with its architectural style or the setting of the building within the town centre conservation area would be demolished.

· The ground floor would then become home to a cafe, maker’s market and small retail spaces showcasing the products of those operating from four start-up business spaces on the first floor and three workshops, studios and shared studio space on the second floor.

Work is now underway to appoint an architect for the scheme.

The Millom Town Deal includes three further projects; The Iron Line, Connected Millom and Haverigg and Activating Community Health.

Work continues on other parts of the Town Deal projects. The latest plans for a scheme to improve ways to move around Millom and Haverigg sustainably were shared with the community on Wednesday 6 March at a drop-in public engagement event at Millom Guide Hall.

Once completed, the Connecting Millom and Haverigg project will make it easier and safer for people to move around Millom and Haverigg on foot, by bicycle and by incorporating the needs of those with limited mobility.

An exciting opportunity to take on the management of a new activity and leisure facility in Millom and Haverigg has recently ended. This provided the chance for potential operators to submit their interest.