By Jenny Barwise

Last updated at 12:30, Friday, 10 August 2012

Plans have moved a step closer for an indoor market in Maryport.

Steve Wood

The owner of the former town cinema, the Carlton, revealed his plans last month to turn the ground floor of the building into a colourful market.

Steve Wood has now submitted a planning application to turn the first and top floor of the landmark building, on the corner of Senhouse Street and Curzon Street, into seven apartments. This is all part of his masterplan to revive the building.

The indoor market – which would open by the end of the year if given the go-ahead – would offer affordable rents to stallholders who will sell items which aren’t readily available in the town, such as fresh fish, poultry, old fashioned sweets and women’s lingerie.

Mr Wood says he would also stock his own pottery on the market, which would offer three-month renewable leases.

He said would like the market stalls of different colours, like beach huts.

“I really believe we can make a go of an indoor market,” he said.

“If we can provide what people want they will shop here and that will be good for everyone,” he said.

If the market took off, Mr Wood said that he would close his Cockermouth shop and sell his porcelain and china from the Carlton.

Mr Wood bought the Carlton Cinema four years ago as a base for a pottery business and cafe.

Just four months after opening, dry rot was found on the ground floor and he was forced to close the cafe immediately, eventually having to liquidate that part of the business.

First published at 11:25, Friday, 10 August 2012
Published by http://www.newsandstar.co.uk