Bank building to be turned into family cafe

The former NatWest bank in Ulverston shut in 2017, according to planning documents

A former Grade II listed bank which closed eight years ago is due to be turned into a family play cafe.

Westmorland and Furness Council approved plans to turn the old NatWest on Queen Street, Ulverston, into a cafe with an indoor play space for children aged up to five.

The bank shut in 2017 and planning papers said building's impressive character would not be impacted by the change of use.

Representatives of Temple of Play CIC, which is behind the project, said the facility would host indoor play sessions, drop-in support from breastfeeding practitioners and occasional workshops and classes such as baby yoga and post-natal pilates.

The company said: "This community-focused facility will help address the shortage of indoor play opportunities in the Furness area and support the well-being of local families by providing a positive, low-impact use for this prominent and historically significant town-centre building."

Earlier this year, Westmorland and Furness Council said it was implementing a playground project for children.