Florence Mine
This scheme will see works at Florence Mine to both expand the arts centre and conserve the mine buildings for future generations.
Florence Arts Centre
The arts centre will be strengthened as a place for learning, enjoyment, engagement and creativity, focusing on preserving and conserving its unique heritage and celebrating the place, people and surrounding environment.
The work involves extending and modifying the current building (the former shower block for the mine). There will be a new entrance, additional space for the café and allow the performance space to be sited adjacent to the cafe. A new dedicated heritage space will also be created to celebrate the former mine, its history and the surrounding area. New workshop areas and a classroom will also be provided.
Listed mine buildings and external works
The listed mine building close to the arts centre will also be conserved and made safe as a legacy to the iron ore mining industry of West Cumbria.
Externally, the parking will be formalised, the outdoor seating and play area will be improved and there will be better pedestrian access from the town centre through the redeveloped garden area to the rear.
Arts programme
During construction the Florence Arts programme will continue to be delivered from various venues across Egremont and the surrounding area.
As a result of the project Egremont’s cultural offer will be improved, both in local communities during the renovation, and at the centre once the work has taken place. This means more arts activity for residents, but it will also bring in visitors, who are likely to also use the town centre.