A contractor has been appointed to re-develop a former bank in Millom into an arts centre.
The Old Bank, which was formerly home to a NatWest Branch on Market Square, has been renamed by Cumberland Council to mark the building’s transformation into a arts and enterprise centre.
Story Contracting Limited has been selected to lead on the project which aims to bring life back to the disused building and turn it into a community asset.
Work on the project is expected to be finished by March 2026 and once completed it is hoped The Old Bank will provide a mix of spaces for local businesses, start-ups, and the community.
The centre will also include a café, start-up and maker spaces, co-working areas, and workshops.
The work is being completed as part of the Reactivating Heritage Buildings project in line with the £29.3 million Millom Town Deal, which has secured government funding and additional investment to improve the town.
Alongside The Old Bank, improvements will be made to the public spaces in the Market Square area, making it more welcoming for residents, businesses, and visitors.
David Savage, Chair of the Millom Town Deal board, said: “This appointment is an exciting step forward for Millom. The creation of The Old Bank will give a new purpose to this iconic building and will play a big role in revitalising the town centre.
“It’s a great example of how we’re working together to make Millom and Haverigg better places to live, work, and visit.”
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer added: “The Old Bank reflects both Millom’s history and the start of a brighter future. This long-standing empty building, will now become a hub of activity, helping to create jobs and opportunities while improving the appearance of our town centre.”
Jonathan Reed of Story Contracting said: “We are keen to continue building strong partnerships with Millom’s vibrant business community. Local collaboration is key to the success of this project, and we are excited about the opportunities this will create.”
