PLANS have been put forward to potentially resuscitate an historic pub in Penrith that has lain dormant and empty for many years.

An application has been put forward to bring back the Great Dockray Two Lions Hotel, following an application to Westmorland & Furness’ Planning Authority on behalf of Two Lions Hotel Ltd on January 5.

The proposal seeks to undertake remedial works to both the interior and exterior of the building and its outer area. 

The Grade-II listed building comprises mainly three stories with a touch of single-storey sections and basement space, the primary structure currently remains unaltered from its heyday, despite sections having been removed, which were part of the New Squares development. 

According to Oxford Archaeology North, it was built back in 1585 for Gerard Lowther.

The design & access statement reads: “The premises have remained empty since last trading ceased and no other uses have been found.

“Over the following years, various elements of stabilisation works have been undertaken to retain the building's structural integrity and water tightness.

“The proposal seeks to further continue these works on behalf of the landlord and undertake various repair and remedial works to the premises, internally, externally and to the surrounding areas.

“Some further works are also proposed to facilitate occupation by a potential tenant,” it reads.

The Penrith Town Council has come out in support of the application but emphasise that they would like the path through from New Squares to Great Dockray to be retained for use by the public.

With a decline of businesses falling away from Penrith, especially since the beginning of 2024, the plans offer a potentially revitalising addition to the town.

The public consultation will run until February 17.

To view the plans, use planning reference 2023/1212/LBC on Westmorland & Furness’ planning portal.