The first look at the inside of an exciting digital hub and cafe which will transform a derelict town centre building has been unveiled.

BEC continues to move forward its concept for a futuristic gaming hub in the former Whittles furniture store on Duke Street in Whitehaven.

The ambitious scheme was given planning permission by Copeland Council in November and a project design team has recently been appointed.

It will be led by NORR, which BEC worked with to successfully deliver the Bus Station development.

BEC has now released images of how the inside of the digital hub could look.

Steve Holland, head of developments for BEC, said: “This is an exciting step in the redevelopment of this landmark building, with planning approved and the appointment of the design team means we can now start to work on the detail that will turn the vision into practical reality.

"It is vital that we continue to take on board the exciting aspirations and suggestions of the young people who came to the public consultation events, and feedback to check we have got it right”.

BEC is working towards starting construction on site in summer, with the hub being open for business by the summer of 2023.

Mr Holland added: “There is still a lot of work to be done, but we have been overwhelmed by the enthusiasm of the public for the facility.

"It is absolutely vital we listen, respond, act and deliver a development that matches the very real needs identified by our young people”.

A three-day public consultation was held last year which gave the public the opportunity to take part in live interactive virtual reality games and put their views forward. A second public consultation is due to be held.

The former Whittles building was purchased by BEC last year, following the closure of the furniture store in September 2018.