Kells Royal British Legion Club could be demolished – and 10 new homes built on the redeveloped site.
Planning permission is being sought by RDD Limited from Copeland Council.
The historic community venue closed its doors in October 2016 after more than 60 years.
It had been forced to shut despite a new committee who battled for months to save it.
Once boasting more than 500 members, the Kells Legion has been based at Hill Top Road since 1945. However, changing lifestyles saw customers dwindle.
The Legion hosted many community events as well as being the control point for organising the Whitehaven poppy appeal which raises thousands of pounds each year.
At the time of its closure, Helen Holmes, the then secretary of the club, said: "A big thank you needs to be given to all members and friends who over the many, many years have voluntarily helped to give the club a great reputation.
"It is really sad that it has had to close, but not without a fight.''
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