A FORMER Chinese restaurant is set to be converted into a community hub.

The Round House on Walney has been empty for two years and will now be given a new lease of life by Zest Community Action Group

The group has agreed a five-year lease with the building’s private owner and it is now set to become a community centre and beachside cafeteria.

Zest community engagement officer Matt Blackburn said: “We’ve already started work on the building and we hope to have it open to the end of August.”

Mr Blackburn said the biggest challenge facing the group would be to repair the roof, which has taken a beating being situated by the coastline.

“We’re funding the renovation project all on our own as we’ve not been given any funding,” said Mr Blackburn.

“But if any joiners or DIYers can help, we would greatly appreciate it.

“Once up and running, we want to provide a space for community groups.

“It’s a fantastic venue and would be ideal for weekly groups helping people with alcoholism, or preventing drug use.”

As well as opening to the community, the building will soon provide new toilets to Walney beach-goers.

“There isn’t any public toilets within that are," said Mr Blackburn.

“So re-opening the building as a community centre will be a massive bonus for people who are in need of toilet facilities.”

The Round House building will also allow the Zest cleaning group to utilise the space as a central point for storage.

Bill McEwan, Zest committee member, said: “Re-opening the building will be a massive boost to Walney as it will increase visitors.

“Year on year, we seem to be having hotter weather, so it’s a great idea to get the building up and running for future summers.”

Mr Blackburn said: “We can confirm we’re turning part of the building into a cafe.

“This will create a couple of jobs to start off, but we are reliant on volunteers.”