PLANS are afoot to develop a historic Grade II building into a new community hub.

Grizedale Arts are spearheading a project to transform The Farmer’s Arms at Spark Bridge.

The organisation have recently announced they are launching an extensive funding campaign for the general public to donate towards the project.

Its project plans to purchase and redevelop the building at the start of 2021.

It is hoped that the The Farmer’s Arms can return to the heart of the community in the Crake Valley, where it can inspire and nurture both locals and visitors.

In addition, Emma Sumner, valley project manager, also highlighted what the project’s aims are.

She said: “We want to retain the building’s historic function but diversify its offer to better serve the 21st century community’s needs.

“It will be a space that will evolve with its community and their input and also signpost all of the other businesses and talent that sits within the Crake Valley.”

A multi-generational programme will offer open access to the arts, facilitating new routes to collaborative thinking and exchange between the inn’s local and global communities.

Grizedale Arts have stated that The Farmer’s Arms would constantly be under constant evolution, with its workshops providing focus for everyone involved.

Pop-up shops, creative business start-up spaces will be provided to encourage local entrepreneurship.

There is also a commitment to environmental sustainability, with the goal of reaching zero net emissions by 2030.

Additionally, the project will also offer agricultural, cookery, festivals and many more activities.

Grizedale Arts have previously refurbished the Coniston Institute and Lawson Park, with the latter recognised with an award from the Royal Institute of British Architects.

Supported by social investors, Grizedale Arts need to raise £750,000 by December 2020 to support purchase and refurbishment.

To make a contribution, or for further information, contact Adam Sutherland, director at Grizedale Arts, adam@grizedale.org