A FORMER carpet store in Workington could be turned into an ambulance service base, following planning permission submitted to Cumberland Council.

Plans have been lodged for the 'change of use from retail shop to NWAS maintenance, service and repair workshop with a secure enclosure and pedestrian gates' at the former AA Carpets warehouse on Unit 7 of Chapel Road in Workington.

AA Carpets & Furnishing moved into the old Wilko store on Ladies Walk in Workington back in March of this year.

The North West Ambulance Service have submitted their plans to the council after purchasing the site in March 2024, saying they have 'outgrown' their current Workington base - leading to an architect being appointed to 'start developing the proposals for the new facility'.

The new facility if approved will be stripped out and fitted with specialist equipment, as well as external changed to the building.

A design and access statement supporting the applications said: "The project comprises stripping out the existing carpet showroom and refitting and refurbishing the existing internal spaces to accommodate an ambulance maintenance, service and repair workshop.

"To allow for one-way vehicle entry and egress, a new roller shutter door is proposed for the east elevation, and to enable office spaces to be located on the first floor, a new window is proposed for the south elevation.

"The fit-out of specialist equipment to the workshop means there are a number of proposed louvres and vents to the external elevations, and an external lighting scheme for the secure compound is also proposed.

"The proposal includes respraying the external cladding to ensure the facility aligns with the NWAS brand."

The ambulance service say that the re-development of the site will ensure more reliable and efficient ambulance services within the town, as well as benefitting the economy locally.

A design and access statement said: "The redevelopment of the Workington Ambulance Station for the North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust (NWAS) aims to improve ambulance maintenance workshops, offer MOT services, and accommodate associated offices.

"This will bring efficient and reliable services to the local community and benefit the local economy."

Plans were submitted to Cumberland council on September 10 and will now go through a consultation process with the council's planning team.