Vacant park lodge to be restored after a decade
BBCA former park keeper's house which has been empty for 10 years is to be restored.
Cumberland Council said there were options to turn Bitts Park Lodge in Carlisle, which was badly damaged during flooding in 2015, into a cafe and a community hub.
Developers Story Homes and Story Contracting said it would carry out roof repairs, replacement joinery, new doors and windows, electrical and insulation works.
The council said it would invite Carlisle College students to complete part of their construction courses on site.
Council leader Mark Fryer said the authority was "delighted the lodge will once again be open to the public".
Carlisle College's principal, Sarah McGrath, said the project was a "fantastic opportunity for students" to work on site, meeting construction professionals and possibly opening the doors apprenticeships or work experience.
"It's something they can genuinely take pride in, knowing they played a part in bringing the lodge back into use," McGrath added.
Building surveys are to be carried out this summer, with work starting in September, the council said.
