Regeneration plans for Maryport are set to take a step forward tomorrow as councillors will be asked to approve the redevelopment of an iconic former cinema.
Allerdale Borough Council’s development panel will meet in Workington on Tuesday to give their verdict on a number of planning applications.
Amongst the proposals is the refurbishment, redecoration and conversion of the Carlton Cinema as well as the demolition of 28 Senhouse Street to create a small extension.
The proposal is to bring the vacant 1830s building back into use as a versatile cultural and entertainment space as part of Maryport’s £11 million Future High Streets Fund regeneration.
If approved, works will include the demolition of a neighbouring building and “substituting it with a replacement contemporary building which would act as an ancillary supporting structure to the main building.”
Although it too has traditional elements, 28 Senhouse Street has fallen into a state of disrepair.
A main entrance will be constructed with the 90 square metre newbuild which will replace it.
The new building will house a café, box office and artists display area with an open courtyard based at the rear.
The existing 1000sqm Carlton building will be transformed, providing “a new flexible events and performance space, artist’s studio and craft workshops over its differing three floors.”
It is also envisioned that the revitalised building will house sound studios for use by the area’s musicians, podcasters and radio groups.
Supporting statements submitted with the planning application read: “The High Street elevation will be dedicated to an artist’s installation.
“It could display temporary art by local artists, external museums celebrating the heritage of The Carlton, Cumberland Union Bank and wider Maryport area. Further development with the Cultural Consortium of Local Artists is required.”
If approved, the redevelopment will be the latest Maryport regeneration project to take a step forward.
Allerdale Council’s planning panel gave the greenlight to proposals for Christ Church in June.
The nearby derelict church will become the new home of Maryport’s Maritime Museum, costing more than £1 million.
