A local operator has been identified to take on the lease for a new Millom Town Deal project.
Cumberland Council has confirmed that Samantha and Andrew Bowden will take on the lease for Millom’s former NatWest Bank now called The Old Bank and is putting in place the final formal arrangements.
Samantha and Andrew have strong connections with the local area. By showcasing their current operation at Silecroft Café, the new operators submitted a strong application to deliver on both the potential and long-term operation of the Old Bank.
Located in the Market Square, the building is currently undergoing sensitive refurbishment to bring it back into use. When complete it will provide a vibrant space for local businesses, artists, and community groups, helping to support enterprise and improve access to the creative arts and culture in Millom and Haverigg.
The centre will include a food and drink offer, office spaces, business enterprise units, and exhibition and retail display areas, creating new opportunities for people to work, learn, and connect.
The project is being delivered by Cumberland Council through the Town Deal’s Reactivating Heritage Buildings project and is designed to preserve the character of the building while delivering new uses that benefit the wider community.
David Savage, Chair of the Millom Town Deal Board, said:
“We appreciate the time and energy invested by interested parties into this lease process. The appointment of the operator will now move the project into the next key stage in readiness for opening for business and making a key contribution to the overall Town Deal ambition to make our community an attractive place to live, work or visit.”
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer added:
“This is another exciting step forward for the Millom Town Deal. It is great to have an operator in place and we look forward to working with them on the final stages of the project.”
Millom Town Deal includes four major projects backed by £20.6 million from the Government and £8.7 million in match funding. Together, these projects are reshaping the future of Millom and Haverigg through improved health, economic opportunity, and natural connectivity.