Maryport’s transformed former Carlton Cinema is getting ready to take centre stage.
The building, on Senhouse Street, has been overhauled by Cumberland Council as part of a multi-million-pound investment in the regeneration of the town.
An additional contribution came from Sellafield Ltd.
Now Maryport Horizons CIC, a community interest company, will begin the fit out of the building, ready for its opening in the autumn.
The Carlton’s ground floor has an auditorium with capacity for 280 people and the stage has already been installed, with audio equipment and lighting fitted soon.
A next-door abandoned derelict building was demolished and in its place an entrance and bar has been created, with a conservatory and courtyard at the rear.
The first floor has been converted into co-working, small office and workshop spaces, plus a studio for broadcasts and podcasts.
The second floor provides further flexible commercial space.
Catherine Eve, chair of Maryport Horizons and a business owner in Maryport, said: “We are really excited about the next steps in our town’s regeneration.
“Maryport Horizons is a community interest company which works with volunteers to manage public and events spaces as they become available to attract visitors and help revitalise the local economy.
“We cannot wait to get started on giving The Carlton a lively future with events and activities that will appeal to all.”
Leader of Cumberland Council Mark Fryer added: “This is another milestone in Maryport’s regeneration, and I am looking forward to seeing The Carlton open its doors to the public.
“Maryport Horizons is perfectly placed to make this a real destination – they have local connections and are at the heart of the community.
“It is fantastic to see the transformed Maryport Activity Centre, the new skatepark, Prom café, Shiver Me Timbers play area and splash park, Shipping Brow Gallery, new shopfronts, additional town centre homes, and some brilliant public realm really enhancing the town.
“The opening of the new maritime museum is just around the corner too.
“It will give the people who live and work in Maryport even more great reasons to come to town and provide the perfect opportunity to bring in more visitors too. That is good for the economy and will help Maryport thrive.”
