Work has begun on an ambitious project at the Cockermouth’s Kirkgate Centre.
The arts and heritage centre now has a fully refurbished lift and improved lighting, thanks to cash from the Arts Council, government and a charitable foundation.
Soon, an accessible toilet will be installed on the ground floor.
Emma Heys, general manager, said: “This marks the completion of the first stage in our investment programme.
The substantial award from Arts Council England to make improvements to our auditorium space, energy efficiency and accessibility has been generously match funded by the Government and The Benny Walker Foundation.
“This has enabled us to upgrade all the lighting around the building, giving us modern, energy efficient lighting throughout. I particularly love the new spotlights in our downstairs bar.
“The flexibility that they provide gives us crisp and bright lighting for exhibitions, as well as subtle ‘mood’ lighting for more intimate events and parties.”
Katie Gentry, operations manager, said: “Replacing the outdated lighting around the centre was top of my improvements list! Not only is the lighting brighter and cleaner, but will bring our energy costs down and help us to reduce our carbon footprint.
“The lift looks much more inviting with an improved interior and new doors, and the replacement of some key mechanical elements in the plant room has made it much more reliable and efficient”
“We’re always working to improve accessibility at the Kirkgate, and the addition of a WC on the same floor as the auditorium space will make a huge difference for anyone with mobility issues, whether that is staff, volunteers, customers or artists using the centre.”
