Improvement plans at Barrow Town Hall could be completed next year if permission for the plans is granted.

Westmorland and Furness Council wants to make internal changes to the ground floor of the Grade II listed building to increase accessibility and make the town hall a more welcoming space.

If permission is granted, the work would restore the public entrance, which has been diminished by the addition of low-level screens and partitions in the 20th century.

(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

Detailed design work would be carried out in the autumn and physical work would start in the new year and be completed in 2025.

Proposed changes include the removal of interview pods, creating a second reception area for housing, and the installation of self-service PCs for assisted digital support.

New toilet facilities would also be added.

The work would address heating, cooling, and acoustic issues in the building.

(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

The changes are aimed at removing dark, difficult-to-navigate space, and making the building feel open and accessible to all.

Councillor Judith Derbyshire, cabinet member for housing and customer services, said: "The proposed works will reconnect the public with the town hall on a daily basis and ensure the reception area is open, welcome and accessible whilst ensuring that staff are safe and comfortable.

"If approved, the work will deliver on our aspiration to improve the relationship of the community with the town hall, securing its long-term use."

(Image: Westmorland and Furness Council)

A report in support of the proposal from KPP Architects states: “Expanding and improving the public experience of the town hall, by making it more accessible, will allow people to appreciate the building as a collection of spaces which express the historic cultural, social and physical development of the building over time, not just appreciate the impressive façade.”

Views are now being sought from interested parties until September 11.