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Cumbria Market & Theatre Face Demolition Due to Safety Fears
8 May
Summary
- Barrow's Market Hall and The Forum in Cumbria will be demolished.
- Safety concerns include asbestos issues and potential water damage from the roof.
- Demolition costs are estimated to be significantly lower than renovation expenses.
Barrow's Market Hall and The Forum in Cumbria are scheduled for demolition following significant safety concerns that led to their closure. Birmingham-based DSM Demolition has been contracted to conduct initial surveys and proceed with demolition once planning permission is obtained.
The theatre was closed in 2024 due to asbestos issues, while the market was shut down in February 2026 when traders were informed of a substantial risk of water falling from the roof. The Westmorland and Furness council awarded the demolition contract, potentially worth up to £7.9m, with work expected to commence within this financial year.
Funding for the demolition will come from the government's Local Regeneration Fund. A council report from March 2026 indicated that the estimated cost for repairing and renovating the market was £24m as of the previous year, with potential increases due to further deterioration. The cost for renovating The Forum is expected to be of a similar magnitude.
Specialists have advised that repairs would not fully eliminate asbestos contamination. Consequently, complete demolition and disposal were identified as the only methods to achieve full compliance with safety standards. The council stated it lacks the financial resources for either repair or rebuild options, deeming the costs far beyond its capacity.
