Plans to create a community hub in Cleator Moor have taken a step forward.
Part of the Cleator Town Deal, the public services and cultural community hub will be created by redesigning and linking two existing buildings in the Square – the library and the former credit union.
A new café annexe will incorporate a commercial kitchen and the hub is set to provide facilities including an exhibition and arts space and services for young people.
The library will be redesigned with improved reading space and internet access.
There will also be a programme of work to enhance the appearance and ambience of the Square.
Additional information has been submitted to an existing planning application which seeks approval for the extension and alteration of the existing buildings to create a community hub including café.
The relocation of existing sculptures, public realm improvements, the restoration of the memorial fountain, new landscaped areas and accessibility improvements are also included in the plans.
Cleator Moor Town Deal secured an award of £22.5m from the Government’s Towns Fund. The project is being managed by Cumberland Council.
The project will include public realm improvements to the Square:
- Fountain to be restored and made operational, subject to formal agreement from Cleator Moor Town Council.
- New bus shelter erected in the same location
- Improved seating, planting and hard-landscaped areas.
- Artwork and memorials cleaned and repositioned where required.
- Improved public lighting scheme.
- New electric vehicle charging points installed
- New bike racks installed.
- New CCTV cameras installed to monitor the Square, subject to agreement with Cumbria police.
If granted planning permission, it is hoped work will start early next year and be complete in summer 2027.
