PLANS to build four new homes as part of a development aimed at breathing new life into a derelict brewery have been given the thumbs up.

South Lakeland District Council has approved plans to demolish a former workshop and barn in 4 Hart Street in Ulverston and build four new terraced houses in their place.

Project developer Matthew Mayvers revealed ambitious plans to transform the The Old Brewery and adjacent sites into an exciting new development earlier this year.

Construction work has already begun on the internal sites of the Old Brewery and Bird in Hand which was sold in August last year.

Mr Mayvers also revealed plans to develop a gastro pub or restaurant in the brewery as well as a shop unit.

The site, home to the former Hartley’s brewery, has been touted for numerous developments over the decades since it was first shut in 1991.

However, the brewery was snapped up by local businessman, Matthew Mayvers, managing director of the Ulverston-based catering equipment supplier Caterkwik.

Part of the development includes building four new terraced homes in Hart Street.

Plans were also approved to build a new external staircase to the first floor flat over the former Bird and Hand pub, the formation of window and door openings in the pub and existing offices, and removal of existing chimneys.

Eight parking spaces will also be created to the rear of the homes adjoining the developments on Brewery Street and Hart Street.