FEELINGS have changed about a previously controversial development on Bitts Park which is set to boost the next generation of artisans and entrepreneurs.

Mayor of Carlisle Pamela Birks was amongst those concerned about the shipping containers placed in Bitts Park but having visited Joe Gardham of Social Vision at the site, she is enthused about the project.

Pamela said: “I was sceptical about it to be fair but having been there and having spoken to them I’ve completely changed my mind about it. There’s such an ethos about it, about giving back to the community. It’s something which is going to enhance the park.”

Carlisle City Council applied for funding and received £150,000 from Ministry of Housing Communities and Local Government, which underpinned the project.

It will bring a new place for those creative people living in Carlisle to operate where they as tenants of the units are required to reinvest back into local disadvantaged communities, or by the creation of apprenticeships, or bringing school children in to undertake creative activities.

Businesses setting up will be mentored by business professionals in Carlisle, who will help guide them through book-keeping, investing, growing, creating jobs or apprenticeships wherever they need some assistance someone who can help them, and then moving out and into larger premises at some point with success following them.

“They all take turns in running the stall but they still manage their crafts on the other days. If you were a crafts person you’d have to close the shop so that you could go and make the goods.”

Three different crafts will be made and sold to the public at one time from Cumbrian creatives in one unit. The site will also house three food hub units.

“Then there’s one where schools could come in and do tie dying or stone painting” the activities could benefit charities that are important to the youngsters.

Councillor Birks said: “The idea is that everyone whose using the facility gives back to the community and people who are disadvantaged.