A £13.4M project to overhaul the Windermere Steamboat Museum has seen the site undergo a transformation this week.

Work to clear the area has been started ahead of a brand new building being constructed in 2015, to connect people to the water 'in a very special way'.

A spokesman for Lakeland Arts, which is working on the project, explained the aim is to create a 'world-class museum'.

"Lakeland Arts is working with Carmody Groarke architects, Arup engineers and Real Studios exhibition designers to develop not only a new world-class museum but a whole new venue, something quite extraordinary to create an inspiring, engaging and enjoyable experience to appeal to everyone from the local community and tourists, to specialists and school children," he said.

It has also been revealed the attraction will get a new name when it re-launches, and will become 'Windermere Jetty, Museum of Boats, Steam and Stories'.

The news was welcomed by South Lakes MP, Tim Farron.

“Knowing that work has started to clear the site before building work begins is good news," he said.

"I want to pay tribute to Gordon Watson, Martin Ainscough and the whole team at Lakeland Arts for their hard work over the last few years."

The project has come about thanks to a grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF).

MORE TOP STORIES:

Facilities in the new museum will include a wet dock with boats displayed on the water, collection displays where visitors can learn about the people who built and used the boats, an active conservation workshop and a dedicated learning space.

New jetties will also connect people to the water, enabling visitors to arrive by boat or take a trip on a historic launch.

It is expected over 100,000 visitors will visit the site each year.

Mr Farron added: "I’m looking forward to the opening ceremony of the fantastic new museum."