A FORMER Cumbrian pub could get a new lease of life as an Audi showroom if plans submitted to the national park authority are approved.

Plans submitted to the Lake District National Park Authority (LDNPA) would see the Lindale Inn's modern extensions demolished.

The proposal is to retain the original form, roofline and window openings of the original building and replicate them in modern construction.

Where possible stone from the original building will be reused and the ground floor of the building will be mainly showroom.

The first-floor area will contain a number of offices, soft seating and informal meeting areas.

A heritage statement submitted as part of the plans says that the older part of the building can be dated to the 17th century but has been 'very much altered by successive and frequent alteration and extension'.

The statement argues that the removal of the 1980's wings of the building and the removal of the 1930’s and early extensions would 'have a positive impact on the character and setting of the site'.

And a letter written by Debra Cowperthwaite Clerk to the Allithwaite Upper Parish Council said: "We believe the redevelopment will ensure the current site is redeveloped to improve the visual amenity of the area, together with providing a significant and sustainable economic contribution to the local area."

During public consultation events some concern was raised regarding the Audi signage. One resident said that the building proposed was of 'great design' and was 'pleased to see the original 17th century building remaining'.

"There was one resident raising concern about cars dominating the entrance to the village," a public consultation document said. "As can be noted from the above an extensive consultation exercise was undertaken with displays in each of the venues set out above for local residents to respond to. A copy of the notice that invited people to view the display each venue is attached to this statement. In summary, it is considered that this was successful exercise and showed general support for what is proposed with very little reservation."

And the plans, submitted by Roy Allen of Hadwins Audi, include a statement in relation to loss of public house as a community.

"The aspiration of the policy is to maintain and enhance local service provision," it said. "However the likelihood of the pub opening is remote. It is in a poor state repair and would require a very considerable amount of investment. It is also important to note that there is another pub in Lindale and to some extent the closure of The Lindale Inn has reinforced existing business at the alternative facility."