New music and arts venue planned for Whitehaven

Plans have been put forward to turn a former warehouse in Whitehaven in Cumbria into a new music and arts venue.

The redevelopment of the building in the North West port town will provide spaces for recording, rehearsing, workshops and performance.

The proposals, which have been put forward by developers BEC (Britain’s Energy Coast), working in collaboration with local music charity Soundwave, include using recycled shipping containers within the building to create a variety of new spaces.

David Roberts, Soundwave director, said: “We believe this new creative space could be the catalyst for bringing about a change of attitude towards music, arts and culture in West Cumbria.

“It’s a huge step forward for local young creatives and the wider community, a safe creative space where people will be able to discover, explore and perform.”

BEC Chief Executive Michael Pemberton said: “It’s really important that we build a community where people feel welcome, supported and encouraged to grow their skills, showcase their talent, have fun and be part of something special.”

“We’re passionate about making West Cumbria a better place to live, work, visit and ‘play’ and we believe this creative proposition will bring this space back into the spotlight.”

A two-day public consultation about the plans for the building on Bransty Row in the town centre will take place on 27 and 28 February.