Understand
Barrow unveils regeneration plans featuring a new theatre and market hall
Overview
Plans to redevelop Barrow town centre in Cumbria have been unveiled, featuring a new theatre venue, homes, retail and commercial spaces, public areas, and parking. Led by Team Barrow as part of a 10-year regeneration project, the public consultation comes after the town's previous market hall and theatre closed in 2024 due to asbestos concerns and are scheduled for demolition in 2028. The initial phase is estimated to cost around £23m, with consultations running until Saturday to help refine the conceptual designs.
Key points
- Regeneration plans for Barrow town centre have been unveiled, featuring a new theatre, homes, retail spaces, and public areas.
- The 10-year project's first phase is expected to cost approximately £23m.
- Barrow has been without a permanent market or theatre since both The Forum and Market Hall shut in 2024 due to asbestos concerns.
- The closed venues are scheduled to be demolished in 2028.
- Team Barrow describes the current proposals as conceptual designs to help people visualise possibilities, welcoming public feedback and questions during the consultation period.