£77m development plans unveiled

A new town square is at the heart of the development

Multi-million-pound plans for the redevelopment of a Cumbrian town are unveiled on Thursday.

The £77m scheme for most of the centre of Penrith includes four new town squares, a superstore, flats, bars, restaurants and sports facilities.

Eden District Council, and the developers, Lowther Manelli, hope the venture will create 950 jobs and boost the town's economy.

The public are to have the chance to comment on the proposals.

A new football stadium at either Newton Rigg, and an upgraded country park at Wetheriggs, are also planned.

'Infrastructure rejuvenation'

The scheme's central feature of a new town square would serve as a dual purpose venue for parking and the hosting of public events such as fairs and festivals.

The three other squares would host locally-commissioned sculptures by well known artists.

Councillor David Nattrass, joint leader of Eden District Council said: "The submission of plans for Penrith New Squares Development is another milestone in the economic and infrastructure rejuvenation of Penrith.

"The impact of developments such as Penrith New Squares and the Penrith Leisure Centre Extension are helping Eden District Council fulfil many of its key priorities by providing affordable housing, the creation of jobs and opportunities to bolster tourism."