The future of two landmark public buildings in Penrith is expected to become clearer this autumn.
The Grade II listed Penrith Town Hall and Mansion House are heading for change as Eden Council scales back its estate ahead of local government reorganisation due in six months’ time.
The town hall is being tested as a new cultural venue, while Mansion House has moved closer to a potential redevelopment, officials confirmed.
A council spokesman said: “The developer interested in purchasing Mansion House is currently undertaking technical surveys at the property and has entered into discussions with the council’s planning officers, in advance of making a planning application for the long term use of the building.
“Penrith Town Hall is progressing with a programme of test events to establish its viability as a cultural venue for the district of Eden.
“This programme recently saw Opera North give a promenade performance in the council chamber, which will next host a performance from Cumbrian band, Errant Thieves, on Friday October 14.
“This is a charitable event to raise money for the chair of Eden District Council’s chosen charities.”
The Edwardian town hall at Corney Square has been used as such since 1905, while Mansion House has been in council ownership for 103 years.
In six months’ time, the new unitary authority, Westmorland and Furness Council, takes over with staff leaving both buildings and Voreda House being converted into an “anchor building” for the massive new authority which covers an area from Alston to Walney Island.
Meanwhile, Mansion House, dating back to circa 1750, and with car parking for up to 88 vehicles, has been up for sale this year and is now “under offer,” although the identity of the interested party has not been disclosed.
It is being marketed as having a development potential for conversion to hospitality, hotel or residential use.
As far back as 1792, the town hall site was a pair of semi-detached houses including one owned by the cousin of the acclaimed Lakes poet William Wordsworth.
