One of Maryport's regeneration projects, part of a £12m transformation, has received a major boost.

The transformation of the former Carlton Cinema on Senhouse Street into an arts, music, and theatre-centred cultural hub is part of Cumberland Council's regeneration plans, which saw initial funding provided by the Government. 

The project is now set to benefit from a £350,000 grant from Sellafield Ltd.

This funding will allow 'major changes' to be made to the ground floor auditorium, increasing its capacity to accommodate up to 280 standing attendees or 180 seated guests for concerts and other events.

This will enable the venue to host a wider range of events and community activities.

New designs for ventilation and acoustic protection were also needed to minimise external noise, which incurred 'significant additional costs'.

The project is already well underway, with the ground floor of the building lowered to create the main performance area.

The upper floors have seen original windows reinstated and roof lights fitted.

The first floor will be transformed into workshop space for creatives, with rehearsal and sound recording rooms.

The second floor will serve as additional commercial space, potentially housing offices or more creative spaces.

A derelict property next door has been demolished to make way for a new entrance, box office, and bar for the venue, following the creation of a 'contemporary' extension to the building.

Councillor Mark Fryer, leader of Cumberland Council, said: "We have had extensive discussions with the Maryport community about the interior of the Carlton.

"We then took the step of changing the designs to make sure this building could be used by the largest audience possible and had the flexibility in terms of shape and style to host a wide range of performances.

"That did incur some delays and additional cost, but we decided it was the right thing to do to secure the Carlton’s future for the first time in decades.

"We are grateful to the team at Sellafield Ltd for backing this project which will give a real boost to West Cumbria’s cultural offer."

Eirini Etoimou, head of corporate sustainability and supply chain development for Sellafield Ltd, said: "We’re delighted to be supporting this transformational project for Maryport.

"Helping our communities to thrive is one of the priorities of Sellafield’s Social Impact Multiplied (SIX) programme.

"The redevelopment of the Carlton Cinema will breathe new life into an important community asset, help kickstart the regeneration of the town, and enhance the cultural life of Cumberland by providing an inclusive and multi-purpose space for performers and visitors of all ages."