A COMMUNITY is being called to an open day to discuss plans to develop land around one of South Lakeland's leading historic industrial sites.

The holiday village proposal at Backbarrow’s former ironworks, near the southern tip of Windermere, includes more than 30 apartments, shop and cycle hire.

With a rich history dating back to 1711, the Scheduled Ancient Monument would be incorporated as a heritage exhibition site. Outline proposals are now with the Lake District National Park.

Planner Ben Long explained it was important to let people living in the surrounding areas see the preliminary scheme and layout options.

He said: “This is such a crucial location, one of England’s most ‘at-risk’ industrial sites, and current owners Investec Bank are seeking ways of bringing it back into viable use.

“Permission was granted in 2002 for a mixed residential and work use, including measures to conserve the ironworks. While substantially built, it was never finished or occupied.

“Local housing was subsequently approved in 2011, but never progressed. To safeguard the site, current owners are now looking for a scheme which offers a better return in terms of capital and revenue.”

Mr Long said planners would be looking at a raft of issues in determining the application, including the deteriorating condition of the ironworks, the effect on Backbarrow, potential economic benefits, traffic, flood risk and access.

The open day is being held at Leven Valley Primary School between 3pm and 7pm next Thursday (February 27). National park planners and developer’s representatives will be on hand to help with queries.