Plans for £3m regeneration of town go on display

If the plans go ahead, three projects in Egremont will receive a share of £3m

Plans "to breathe new life" into a town as part of a £3m project could include redeveloping the site of a demolished pub and refurbishing an arts venue.

The proposals for Egremont, Cumbria, include renovating the Florence Arts Centre and transforming the site of the old Red Lion in the town centre to provide opportunities for small businesses, Cumberland Council said.

Put forward by the local authority and Egremont Town Team, and funded by the government, the plans are going on display at Egremont Market Hall.

Council Labour leader Mark Fryer said this was a "major milestone" for the town.

Fryer said: "We're now in a position to share and progress ambitious plans that will breathe new life into the town.

"I'm excited to see how these projects evolve and the positive impact they'll have on the community."

A proposed new performance space would be created at Florence Arts Centre

Proposals include a new building with a cafe, workshop space and public toilets, which would then give access to a new community open space and a multi-use community building.

Florence Arts Centre, based at the former Florence Mine, would undergo repairs and refurbishment to stop further deterioration, including removing asbestos, the council said.

A new performance space with movable walls would be created, as well as more artists' studios.

The cafe and car park would also be expanded.

The council said plans to improve links in Egremont were still being developed, but could include improvements to pedestrian crossings in the town centre, a town trail and clearer signage.

Residents are being encouraged to give their views on the plans.

Egremont Town Team chairman, Sam Pollen, said securing the investment was a "huge win" for the town.

"These proposals reflect the town's potential and the passion of its people," he said.

"I encourage everyone to come along, see how the designs have progressed and help us refine them with feedback."