Ulverston’s Coronation Hall Set for Revamp Push Amid Major Funding Bid

Efforts to shape the future of Ulverston’s Coronation Hall are progressing as Westmorland & Furness Council works on a significant funding bid that could deliver an ambitious redevelopment of the beloved community venue. Hundreds of local residents, arts groups and stakeholders shared their views last year on how The Coro could be improved, and that community feedback is now being used to support the application.
The council has already earmarked an initial £2 million investment for the project, along with £500,000 from the Borderlands Place Programme, and is now seeking up to £3.2 million in additional funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund. If successful, the extra funds could allow for a more extensive redevelopment, expanding The Coro’s role as a cultural, arts and community hub.
Representatives from the National Lottery Heritage Fund have already visited the venue to discuss the bid, and the council is finalising its submission, with a deadline set for next month. A community working group including town councillors, local business owners, disability and arts organisations is collaborating closely with council project teams to ensure that the application reflects broad community support and ambitions for the venue’s future.
Should the funding bid be approved, architects will be appointed to work with local people on concept designs for how The Coro could be transformed. This includes envisioning an enhanced facility that better supports performances, events, arts activities and other community uses. However, designers will also prepare plans for improvements that could be delivered within the existing budget if the lottery funding is not secured.
Coronation Hall one of Ulverston’s most iconic community venues and a key cultural centre for performances, arts, theatre, fairs and community activities has long been valued by residents. The potential redevelopment represents a chance to preserve and expand its role at the heart of town life for years to come.
Local engagement continues as the council pushes ahead with preparations for the funding submission, signalling a major step forward in the long‑term vision for The Coro’s future.