Plans will be submitted to turn Cockermouth's former youth hostel into a home to make it easier to sell.

The Grade II listed, three-storey former mill has been empty since the YHA ended its lease in November due to low occupancy rates.

The riverside building, off Fern Bank, had been a youth hostel for more than 80 years. It was put up for sale, inviting offers in excess of £200,000, but has remained unsold as only lower bids were made.

Cockermouth Town Council has now agreed measures to make it more attractive to potential buyers.

As well as applying for permission to change its use, the council will also apply for a footpath which runs through the site to be closed.

Councillors also agreed to spend a maximum of £2,000 improving the building internally, including removing carpets and redecorating.