A NEW business and commercial centre has been proposed for a South Lakeland seaside town.

The new site would see the demolition of the former parish hall at Grange-over-Sands, making way for a three-storey building, intended for shops, financial and professional services, restaurants and cafes and drinking establishments.

Aimed specifically to attract and retain businesses in the town, the developers have suggested that more than 30 jobs could be created if the scheme is approved.

Anthony Smith, director of Progression Solicitors and lead applicant, said: "This could create a true business hub for Grange, in a space that is functional and viable for the town.

"There is real demand for quality affordable office and retail space and the proposed building will go a long way towards stimulating business activity in the area."

The parish hall was put up for auction last year, after it was deemed 'unviable' by the Parochial Church Council (PCC) for St Paul's Parish Church.

Speaking at the time of the decision, a diocese spokesperson said that the PCC cited 'increased pressure on staffing resources to manage the building, coupled with the fact that only one per cent of its letting time was for direct church use.'

The plans have been submitted to South Lakeland District Council following a rejection by Historic England to list the building.

Initially designed as a four storey building, the project has been amended to reflect the existing roof lines in Kents Bank Road and will have three floors and a lift.

The application states that it is envisaged that the majority of employees will live locally but a small carpark is situated at the rear, together with bicycle parking. The site is also close to a public car-park.

The applicants have also stated that where possible they will use and recycle existing materials, renewable technologies and utilise a local workforce to complete the works.