PLANS have been revealed for a brand new £2million attraction as part of proposals to develop a "forgotten" coastal town in the UK.
People in Millom, Cumbria felt it was being left behind until it was earmarked for £20.6m worth of investment in 2022.
Now, there are plans in place for several regeneration projects, with the transformation of a former bank recently given the green light.
Permission has been given for the building to be turned into a community "arts and enterprise" space with a cafe, a maker’s market, small retail spaces, workshops and studios.
David Savage, chairman of the Millom Town Deal board, said: “This is great news for Millom and a big step forward for this scheme.
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"This once in a lifetime investment includes projects which will provide huge benefits for the communities of Millom and Haverigg.
“The arts and enterprise centre is an integral part of the transformation of a forgotten town into something quite extraordinary."
The bank's transformation is just one of four projects in place as part of the Millom Town Deal.
In November 2022, the Millom Town Deal Board secured £20.6m for the projects, which were identified as local priorities.
Along with the bank's transformation, the other projects include The Iron Line, described as a scheme that will see the sea wall and coastal lagoon off the coast of Millom "sensitively enhanced".
It will also include upgrades to significant landmarks, as well new public art installations.
A new welcome centre will be built at the sea lagoon, with a café/bar, retail spaces and an events room.
Parking for around 80 vehicles will make the almost 7km of walking and cycling routes that are set to be enhanced as part of the project more accessible.
Additionally, there's the connected Millom and Haverigg project, with aims to make the town more accessible and better connected and the Activating Community Health project.
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As part of those initiatives, a new leisure hub with a pool and 3G sports pitches will be built, while better transport links will also be created.
The existing railway station will be developed into a transport hub and key gateway into the town.
The Millom Town Deal website promises that the town will be "revitalised and better-connected" following the investment.
It continues: "We will be recognised as a welcoming peninsular town, with thriving independent businesses and a distinctive culture, arts and tourism offer.
"Locals and visitors will enjoy active, healthy and sustainable lifestyles."
However, the website also calls for patience from residents in the town, keen to make the most of the benefits that such development will bring.
It continues: "Change will not happen overnight.
"But the Town Deal team is working hard with a variety of stakeholders to make sure every element of the plan is delivered."
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