PROGRESS is well underway to convert a derelict brewery in Ulverston.

Construction work has begun clearing the internal sites of the Old Brewery and Bird in Hand in Ulverston.

The brewery was sold to a local businessman, Matthew Mayvers, last month after remaining vacant for nearly 30 years.

Mr Mayvers said he is ‘excited’ for the new project which will provide homes, create employment and attract visitors to Ulverston.

However, Mr Mayvers said the team currently remains 'open-minded' on conversion plans for the brewery, with potential ideas to develop the site into accommodation or a gastro eating place.

Whilst clearing the buildings, the team has also sold a number of furniture items to help raise money for St Mary's Hospice.

Mr Mayvers said: "We raised over £500 so we want to give a big thank you to everybody's support.

"However there are a few bits left over so we are continuing to sell those on behalf of the hospice throughout the coming months

"It's a really good cause to give to especially because they've suffered so much due to the pandemic."

A pre-application for the brewery has already been submitted and the team is awaiting a reply from South Lakeland District Council.

Mr Mayvers said: "We're continue with the external clearing of the overgrown shrubbery and surveys have been agreed and are taking place shortly."

Mr Mayvers said the team want to give the derelict Bird and Hand 'a new lease of life'.

"We like the look of the bar and don't want to change its name," he said.

"We want to try and give it a new lease of life with a modern, fresher look. At this stage, we're not 100 per cent sure we're going to keep it as a pub. It's probably going to be a more food-led gastro style business. It's a really exciting opportunity which will create a number of new jobs."