Transformational regeneration for Egremont moves a step closer this week with planning permission sought for a town centre scheme.
The development of the former Red Lion site is part of a wider project backed by £3m from the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal.
It is expected permission for large-scale improvements at Florence Arts Centre will also be sought in the near future.
These key regeneration initiatives, plus work around ‘Connecting Egremont’ involving access and signage, form a £9.7m bid to increase the attractiveness of the town, improve footfall and breathe new economic life into Egremont.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said: “This is a very exciting time for Egremont, and I am delighted we have now applied for planning permission for the Red Lion site.
“Together, these projects represent the most significant investment in Egremont for a generation. They will support the town centre, attract new employers, retain young people, and create the modern cultural and commercial facilities needed for long-term economic resilience.
“This is about giving Egremont a stronger future — not just new buildings, but new opportunities, jobs and reasons for people to visit, spend time and invest.”
Development of the vacant Main St site will include:
- A new public space
- A new entrance and building to the front of the site
- The refurbishment of a vacant two-storey building for community uses.
Key features of the Florence Arts Centre proposal are:
- A new heritage display area
- A larger café
- A new performance area and studio spaces
- The preservation of some of the former mine buildings
- Better access, parking and outdoor seating.
Today’s development follow extensive engagement with local stakeholders and the community to ensure the projects reflect local priorities and maximise economic and social benefits.
Egremont Town Team Chair, Cllr Sam Pollen, said: “I am proud that the Town Team and Cumberland Council have reached this important milestone.
“We are determined to deliver a better connected, more vibrant town centre and a significantly enhanced cultural offer.
“The Red Lion scheme delivers flexible business space that supports job creation, entrepreneurship and year-round economic activity. And Florence could become an incredible cultural destination. Both projects pave the way for more people in our fantastic town, spending more money with local businesses – I can see a renaissance for Egremont, and I look forward to it.”
Simon Walker, Chair of Egremont and Area Regeneration Partnership Ltd, Florence Mine, said: "We are delighted to be part of Egremont’s bright and exciting future, and to make Florence Mine the heritage and cultural facility that the town deserves.
"We have worked with and listened to people to understand what they want Florence to be. Working with architects Building Design North, we will conserve this last remaining part of west Cumbria’s iron ore mining heritage, while celebrating west Cumbria's artists and makers, and enabling everyone to look after and develop their creative side."
The application for the redevelopment of Florence Arts Centre will be submitted by the Egremont and Area Regeneration Partnership.
The Red Lion site application can be found here online: 4/26/2044/0F1 | Copeland Borough Council
The projects’ final business case for full funding will be presented to the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal Partnership Board for approval in the spring. If the planning applications are successful, further funding is secured, and the business case is supported, work on both schemes should begin in late 2026 and take around 12 to 18 months to complete.
Background:
The Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal is a £350 million investment programme designed to unlock economic potential across Cumbria, Northumberland, and the Scottish Borders. Egremont is one of several areas in Cumberland to benefit. The funding is aimed at driving inclusive growth and improving connectivity across the region.
It is made up of £150 million for Scotland (£85 million from the Scottish Government and £65m from the UK Government) and up to £200m for England from the UK Government. This will be supported by more than £100m of funding from local partners.
The Borderlands Partnership is made up of Cumberland Council, Dumfries and Galloway Council, Northumberland County Council, Scottish Borders Council, and Westmorland and Furness Council.
For more information on the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal and the programmes and projects the Deal aims to deliver visit www.borderlandsgrowth.com