A building on the historic Carlisle Castle grounds could find a new lease of life if plans gain council approval.

The former regimental offices on the grounds at the famous fortress will be transformed into a dance studio

A Grade II listed detached sandstone building with a mix of pitched slate and flat roofs located within the well-known Carlisle Castle.

The property comprises former Duke of Lancaster regimental offices.

The buildings are estimated to have been built during the 19th / 20th centuries and was formerly occupied by the military based at the Castle.

The site that is earmarked to potentially host the new dance studio is the former Regimental HQ and Officers Mess located within Carlisle Castle, being prominently positioned above the City of Carlisle.

The Castle occupies a 4-acre site formerly occupied by the military, which is now preserved by English Heritage, who occupy the site alongside Cumbria’s Museum of Military Life.

Carlisle Castle benefits from approximately 11,000 visitors per annum.

According to the applicant, Jack Dunn, The Regimental HQ represents the perfect location for his theatre group with its prominent location.

He stated: "[It] provides an ideal opportunity for a complimentary business to benefit from this, whilst being located within these attractive surroundings.

He added that the new usage for the building would safeguard its future.

"The plan is to sustain the future use of the building. The historic fabric of the building will be unaffected. The change of use is to a Performing Arts Studios with the following repairs/ refurbishment.

The building is in need up some repairs with some damp and a leak from the roof being an issue. The changes are set to be as follows:

• Repair to Bathroom ceiling and redecoration

• Replacement of shower with one Toilet

• Repair to lead Flashing at rear of property as detailed by

English Heritage

• Repair to crack on front of property

• Installation of Fire Alarm as required by the Fire Officer

• Portable Dance Floor to be laid over existing flooring in Upper

Floor rooms.

In the planning documents, the applicant also outlines that they have had prior confirmation that the fact that the building is listed should not pose problems during the planning process.

They stated: "We are advised by Roger Higgins ( Urban Design/ Conservation Officer, Carlisle City Council) That Listed Building Consent will not be required."

You can view the application yourself at carlisle.gov.uk.

When prompted, please use the application reference: 21/0679.