A historic Penrith building, empty for many years, could be brought back into use.
It is more than two decades since the last drink was served at the former Two Lions pub in Great Dockray, the main part of which dates back to the 16th Century, and it has fallen into a state of disrepair — although owner Sainsbury’s Supermarkets Ltd has spent money keeping it structurally sound.
Now, a planning application has been submitted to Westmorland and Furness Council which indicates the Grade II* listed building, with a number of rare architectural features, could have a brighter future.
Two Lions Hotel Ltd is seeking listed building consent to carry out internal and external repairs to the old pub, reinstatement of drainage and services and associated works.
A design and access document submitted as part of the application says further works would be required to “facilitate occupation by a potential tenant”.
When approached by the Herald, the applicant declined to comment further on who the potential tenant might be.
Features of particular note at the former pub include a fine plaster ceiling with heraldic shields of the Lowther family dated to the 1500s.
