PLANS have been approved for the redevelopment of a ‘commercial hub’ just outside of High Hesket - bringing with it a proposed influx of jobs. 

The existing industrial and retail site, located at Old Town, will see a complete facelift to provide new offices, retail, and light industrial premises.

The redevelopment project was put forth by Ashwood Design Associates Ltd on behalf of JAF (Cumbria) Limited and approved by the Westmorland & Furness' planning authority subject to certain conditions. It was approved on June 28. 

The current site, home to Hesket Antiques and Curios, Henry’s Café and a wagon park at the rear, currently employs 10 full-time and two part-time staff.

The approved redevelopment plan foresees employment numbers climbing to 30 full-time and five part-time positions.

According to the design and access statement, it reads: "This development proposes a new commercial hub on a brownfield site, currently already used for mixed industrial and commercial purposes.

"This application seeks approval for to demolish the existing low-grade, unsustainable buildings which will be replaced by the well-designed, sustainable proposal”.

The redesigned site layout will split the area into two primary sectors - retail, cafes, office spaces and a nursery towards the front - whilst reserving the rear section for industrial units.

The redevelopment ensures a net additional gross floor space increase by 906 square metres.

The proposal states that the building will be powered by sustainable sources such as solar panels on the roof. 

It also seeks to add another 53 parking spaces to the existing 30. 

The site is adjacent to a caravan park as well as a site that has received outline planning consent for a residential development.

 "It is an ideal location for such proposal, as not only does it have the opportunity to capitalise on the passing trade of the A6, it will also provide a central hub comprised of retail, offices and industrial units for the communities of the many local villages and hamlets," the proposal reads. 

Support for the development has been voiced by Hesket Parish Council.

Ahead of the build, specific requirements, such as agreed written statements associated with the build's construction, a construction traffic management plan, and both surface water and drainage management and maintenance plans are required.