Plans have been unveiled to transform a derelict Whitehaven warehouse into a creative music hub.
Social impact property developers BEC has applied to Cumberland Council for permission to turn The Bus Station warehouse into a space for aspiring creatives and musicians.
Recycled shipping containers will be used to create the new space in a bid to create a modern and sustainable building design.
The building will be operated by local music charity Soundwave and the hub will feature a performance space, live lounge, and workshop studio.
Through public consultation earlier this year with engagement events held in The Peddler, the community were given an opportunity to play a part in its design and use.
Stephen Holland, head of development at BEC said: “It is inspiring to see this project, which started as a casual conversation about possible space in the Bus Station, evolving into what will be a fantastic new home for Soundwave.
“The hub will enable Soundwave to continue its excellent work in the community and deliver a great venue for grassroots arts and music in the town, the last part of our redevelopment of the old Bus Station.
“Throughout the project, the feedback and support from the public for both the cause and proposal itself has been excellent, we have taken concerns around noise on board in the design and are looking forward to working with Soundwave to bring the building back to life.”
Soundwave was founded in 2005.
David Roberts, director at Soundwave said: “We’re so pleased that the plans for a new creative space for Whitehaven are ready to be submitted. It’s been an amazing journey with BEC to this point, we’ve learned a lot about how working with partners in different sectors can enhance practice and potentially make a huge difference for our communities.
“This renovation project is a prime example of two organisations’ strengths complimenting each other to bring about a major change.
“The creative hub will be much more than a building, it’s a catalyst for change, new opportunities, skill development and careers and hopefully the start of a new relationship with arts and culture in West Cumbria.”
