PLANS have been submitted to convert a derelict former hotel at Talkin Tarn into 18 apartments.

Citadel Estates wants to convert the former Tarn End House Hotel, a 19th-century building which has stood empty for years.

The hotel, near Brampton, stopped trading in 2004 and the building was bought by Citadel from Cumbria County Council for £450,000 in 2009. However, it has stood empty since then. 

The planning application, which has been submitted to Carlisle City Council, involves restoring and converting the former hotel and reconfiguring ancillary outbuildings to provide 18 two-bedroomed apartments. 

Citadel’s owner Dean Montgomery said: "The scheme has been prepared by working in conjunction with the council over the last 12 months. 

"It allows the retention and restoration of this cherished local landmark building together with the reconfiguration of the less harmonious parts of the existing building. 

"Externally, the re-creation of the large formal garden and the renovation of the jetty will provide a suitably fitting backdrop for what should be considered an iconic development."

The developers say if the "appropriate consents and licences" are granted, work would start immediately with an anticipated completion date by spring next year.

Brampton resident Geoff Prest said: "The hotel has deteriorated over the years and is now an absolute eyesore. It is such a shame because it is a beautiful location."

Mr Prest, who is also vice-chairman of Brampton parish council, said: "My views are not necessarily the views of the parish council. 

"If the conversion is for apartments rather than holiday lets then I think I would go along with that. Anything is better than nothing. 

"It is time to do something with that property."

The building had planning consent to be converted into holiday lets but in 2010 developers requested conditions be removed to allow the building to become luxury apartments. 

This sparked opposition and Carlisle City Council received 50 objections and a petition against the application with only one letter in support.