'Contemporary extension' to events venue begins

The extension will house the new entrance and a box office for the events and arts centre

Construction work has begun on a "contemporary extension" as part of the reinvention of a Cumbria town's landmark building.

Maryport's former Carlton Cinema is being converted into a centre for the arts, music and theatre.

Following the demolition of the derelict building to one side of the building, work has begun on a single storey structure to house the new entrance and box office.

The project is part of the £12m government-funded regeneration of Maryport, which is being carried out by Cumberland Council.

Construction work on the new entrance has begun

The council said the new ground floor event space would accommodate up to 280 people for events like concerts, while seated shows would be able to accommodate up to 180 in the audience.

There will be workshop space for creatives, with rehearsal and sound recording rooms, on the first floor and additional commercial space on the second.

Leader of Cumberland Council, Mark Fryer, described it as the "exciting next stage of the Carlton's reinvention".

He said: "The new entrance and box office takes the place of a derelict building which was an absolute blight on the town centre.

"The building's conversion will be completed later this year and then the Carlton will be a destination to be proud of once more."