WITH hopes of transforming an iconic building in Carlisle into something the city needs, a local developer is reaching out to the public for ideas on what to do with a former bank on Devonshire Street. 

The mid-1800s, five-story building, located at 4 Devonshire Street, was recently acquired by Will Morgan and his partner Maxine, who will be known to many for their successful revitalisation of Carlisle's Old Fire Station.

"We've bought the building but don't have a firm idea of what it could be. It could be turned into anything. I'm keen to put the word out and see what people think Carlisle is missing. 

"What business does the city need? Is it something that doesn't exist already? I'm totally open to suggestions.

"I want to know what people from Carlisle and the surrounding areas think would be perfect in this building, then we can assess the feasibility.

"In the same way we've done with the Old Fire Station and tried to move it forward, I'd like to do it here.

"The building has sat empty for years, which is a real shame because it is such an iconic building," Will said. 

The building currently boasts a historical bank charm with partitioned offices and an intact walk-in vault in the basement. 

News and Star: The walk-in vault located inside hopes to become a feature of the new business.The walk-in vault located inside hopes to become a feature of the new business. (Image: Will Morgan)

"Everything inside is exactly as it was when it was a bank.

"The plan is to strip it out and look at the size of it. 

"Whatever we do with the development, it would be quite cool to see how we can incorporate the vault in some way," Will said. 

Will is excited to get in on this development at a time when he feels the city is moving forward, with the development of the Carlisle Station project and university campus, as well as the transformation set to hit Devonshire Street itself in the coming weeks. 

"The building will be on one of the nicest streets in Carlisle when the work is done.

"It's going to have a real European vibe to that area. 

"For me, this is the most exciting time for the city.

"It feels like we're standing on the precipice of greatness. With all these developments, train station, university - I hope it will turn Carlisle into the city it should be," he said.