A former mountain bike shop and appliance showroom in Keswick has been converted into four new affordable homes for locals.
The building on Otley Road is owned by Cumberland Council and has been transformed into four modern apartments which have all been let to people who work in the town.
The traditional slate building has been completely converted, with new wiring and plumbing inside. The one-bedroom apartments have solar panels on the roof, with convenient parking and cycle racks, new kitchens and bathrooms.
The Council worked with volunteers from Keswick Community Housing Trust to find tenants for the homes. The organisation was created in 2010 to address the issues of a shortage of properties and high prices in the Lake District National Park. It will also manage the properties on behalf of the Council, arranging the leases and maintenance.
Cleator Moor-based William King Construction was the main contractor for the project.
Council Emma Williamson, executive member for housing at Cumberland Council, said: “We know there are serious housing supply issues in towns like Keswick so the fact we’ve been able to bring four more homes to the market is great news.
“This is the second such initiative we have worked on alongside Keswick Community Housing Trust. The first was the conversion of a former toilet block into four apartments, now known as Banks Court. We’re really pleased we have been able to use another redundant building for the benefit of the community.”
Bill Bewley, chair of Keswick Community Housing Trust, added: “KCHT was very pleased to enter the collaborative process that has resulted in us leasing the building and we look forward to working with the Council for many years. We are very happy we have been able to jointly provide accommodation for four deserving Keswick residents."