A regional publisher has unveiled plans to build a new state-of-the-art newsroom alongside proposals to demolish a redundant printing press hall.

Newsquest has submitted plans to pull down the empty former press hall in Dalston Road, Carlisle and build a “fantastic” new home on ths site for the News & Star and Cumberland News.

The Whitehouse, a separate office space in the grounds of the building, is set to be transformed into new offices for the two titles and digital marketing agency for LOCALiQ.

If approved, the plans would see the “iconic” tower displaying the News & Star and The Cumberland News branding moved to the Whitehouse.

How the Dalston Road site currently looks

David Coates, managing director for Newsquest North, said: “The redevelopment of the Whitehouse is our firm commitment to ensuring the News & Star and The Cumberland News remain the number one publisher of local news in Carlisle and North Cumbria.

“The Dalston Road site no longer meets the need of a growing modern newsroom or digital marketing agency.  We plan to create a great space for our teams to work in as well as an inviting proposition for local clients to visit.”

The press hall has been empty for more than two years after print production of the Cumbria titles moved to Newsquest’s Glasgow print centre.

Newsquest aim to complete the Whitehouse project by early 2022.   The remainder of the Dalston Road site will be put on the market.

Vanessa Sims, editor of the News & Star and The Cumberland News, said: “This project is really exciting. Investing in a state-of-the-art newsroom at our iconic Dalston Road site when so many other publishers are scaling back really shows our commitment to being the voice of Carlisle and North Cumbria.

“Our dedicated and growing team of journalists will continue to be based at the home of the News & Star and The Cumberland News bringing you the stories that matter the most.”