West Cumbrian cafe owners have been named as the new operators of a flagship project in Millom.
Samantha and Andrew Bowden, who run the Sunset Beach Cafe on Silecroft beach, will take on the Old Bank in the town.
Work is currently underway to transform the former NatWest bank on Market Square into a centre for businesses, artists and community groups.
Part of the Millom Town Deal, it is hoped it will help support enterprise and improve access to the creative arts and culture in Millom and Haverigg.
The centre will include a food and drink offer, office spaces, business enterprise units, and exhibition and retail display areas
Cumberland Council confirmed the Bowdens will take on the lease for The Old Bank and said it was putting in place the final formal arrangements.
It added: “Samantha and Andrew have strong connections with the local area.
“By showcasing their current operation at Silecroft café, the new operators submitted a strong application to deliver on both the potential and long-term operation of the Old Bank.”
The project is being delivered by Cumberland Council through the Town Deal’s Reactivating Heritage Buildings project.
David Savage, chair of the Millom Town Deal Board, said: “We appreciate the time and energy invested by interested parties into this lease process.
“The appointment of the operator will now move the project into the next key stage in readiness for opening for business and making a key contribution to the overall Town Deal ambition to make our community an attractive place to live, work or visit.”
Millom Town Deal includes four major projects backed by £20.6 million from the Government and £8.7 million in match funding. Together, these projects are reshaping the future of Millom and Haverigg through improved health, economic opportunity, and natural connectivity.
