Ambitious plans for a £16million transformation of Maryport's town centre including a new market, swimming pool and museum look set to take a major step forward tomorrow.

The business case for Allerdale Council's bid to the Government's Future High Streets Fund is recommended for approval by the council's executive tomorrow afternoon at 4pm, with a view to the proposals being submitted by the end of the month.

The funding would be used to pay for a multi-million-pound revamp which would include the regeneration of the Christ Church, Carlton Cinema and Empire Yard, as well as an overhaul of The Wave Centre.

A report from council officer Paul Taylor, who is leading on the project, recommends the executive should note the progress on the development of the business case and provide authority to submit it.

It also asks for the executive to approve progression towards acquisition of the Empire Yard, Carlton Cinema and Christ Church and a contribution of £749,000 from the council towards the developments.

The report concluded: "By supporting the development of the business case for the Future High Streets Fund submission for Maryport, this will enable Allerdale to progress with a clear plan to redevelop the town centre area.

"If the submission of the business case is approved by MHCLG this will provide Maryport with a much-needed boost, which will increase footfall within the town centre benefitting both the local community and economy significantly."

The council is asking for government funding of £4.2m for the redevelopment of The Wave Centre, £3.6m for landscaping and pedestrian improvements in the town centre, £2.3m for the Carlton Cinema, £2.1m for Empire Yard and £1.2m for Christ Church.

It also wants to receive £2.9m towards the conversion of retail units into apartments.

Mr Taylor's report noted that the plans had prompted a large amount of public interest, the majority of which was in support, with more than 70 people providing feedback through the council's website and in excess of 150 comments on social media and via email.

It also revealed that the council is currently in negotiations to acquire the sites earmarked for regeneration.

The acquisition of the Empire Yard site is said to be more difficult due to "the complexities of current ownership" and a caravan which is reportedly on the site illegally, Mr Taylor's report said.

The town is in the top 100 shortlist of bids for the Future High Streets Fund.

The business case will be discussed at a virtual meeting which will be streamed online and a link will be available through the council's website at www.allerdale.gov.uk