Regeneration plans to face questions from public

Residents will have a chance to quiz council chiefs over plans to redevelop a town centre.

Barrow is set to undergo a 10-year regeneration project, with the first phase costing about £23m expected to bring a new market village, temporary theatre and a programme of live events.

This phase was partly designed in response to the sudden closure of The Forum and Market Hall due to asbestos issue, with both set to be demolished in 2028.

Team Barrow, which is leading on the project, and Westmorland and Furness Council will host consultation events on 2 October at Barrow Town Hall from 11:00 BST to 19:00 and on 3 October at The Bridge on Portland Walk from 10:00 to 15:00.

Plans by the group were previously criticised for their lack of detail and the area's Labour MP Michelle Scrogham called for the project to be brought under "proper local control".

People will have a chance to meet senior officers and consultants, including architects, view the plans and take part in question and answer sessions.

These will be held at 13:00 and 18:00 on Friday and 11:30 and 14:00 on Saturday.

A Team Barrow spokesperson said information would also be available about wider investment from businesses and organisations such as the University of Cumbria.

They said: "The event is intended to be open, honest and welcoming, with experts on hand to answer questions and explain what is possible, as well as the challenges that need to be addressed."

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