A five-figure boost could see an historic building brought back into public use.

The derelict former council chambers on Frizington’s Main Street has sat empty for more than 15 years.

North of England Civic Trust (NECT) and Phoenix Enterprise Centre are looking to breathe life into the facility, built in 1898.

Support has come from the Heritage Lottery Fund (£10,000 Start Up Grant), the Architectural Heritage Fund (£10,000 Project Development Grant), Regen North East Copeland (£500) and Cleator Moor East and Frizington Local Members Scheme fund, (£1,000).

The money will enable and Phoenix Enterprise Centre to draw up detailed plans for the re-use of the building as a Community Development Centre.

The building provided a council chamber, free library and associated civic facilities and when completed the library was in possession of 2,600 volumes.

Locals will remember its last use as the venue for a mother and toddler group.

Three years ago planning permission was granted for the conversion of the building to flats, however because of the recession, funding fell through.

PEC would use the building as a training and employment advice centre. It would also be open to the public for meetings and parties.

Funding is being sought for the regeneration with an initial £22,000 needed to pay for the planning and consultation before submitting an application to the Heritage Lottery Fund.

“It has taken six years of perseverance to get to this point,” said Graham Bell, director of NECT. “But, it is a great building that means a lot to local people – that’s what the funders recognise, and that’s what we’re grateful for.”

Joanne Crowe, operations manager of Phoenix Enterprise Centre, added: “To be able to provide a doorstep service to the people of Frizington is what this is about – returning the building to the public is how we aim to do it.”

Cumbria county councillor Tim Knowles said he has been backing the project for years.

He said: “This building is a landmark, historically, but it should also be one that speaks for our community now.”

Peter Connolly, chairman of Arlecdon and Frizington parish council, said: “I am pleased this project is moving forward and hope the Council Chambers will soon be providing first class services for the people of Frizington in the heart of the community.”

For more information, call NECT on 01912 329279.