Council confirms operator for major Millom town deal project
Cumberland Council has confirmed the operator for a major Millom Town Deal project marking an important milestone in the regeneration of the town centre and the redevelopment of the former NatWest bank building in Market Square.
The building, now being transformed into “The Old Bank”, will be run by local operators Samantha and Andrew Bowden, who already manage a café business in the region. Their appointment follows a formal selection process as part of the wider Millom Town Deal regeneration programme.
The project aims to convert the historic building into a multi-use community and enterprise hub, featuring:
- Food and drink facilities
- Office and business units
- Creative and exhibition spaces
- Retail and community areas
This redevelopment is part of a broader government-backed investment plan worth around £20.6 million, designed to improve economic opportunity, skills, and town centre activity in Millom and Haverigg.
Council leaders say the appointment of a dedicated operator is a key step toward opening the building to the public, allowing the project to move into its final delivery phase. Once complete, it is expected to create new jobs, support small businesses, and attract visitors to the town centre.
The Millom Town Deal is part of a national regeneration scheme aimed at revitalising towns through targeted investment in heritage buildings, infrastructure, and local enterprise development.
Local officials have described the progress as an important moment in Millom’s transformation, with the Old Bank expected to become a central hub for community activity and economic growth.
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