AN ARTS centre is hoping to get permission to expand into a nearby building.

The Kendal Brewery Arts Centre Trust has lodged a planning application with South Lakeland District Council to turn the former warden's accommodation block at the YHA building at Highgate into extra space for the arts centre.

The building, which is owned by the Brewery, was leased to the YHA for use as warden's accommodation but has been unused for some time.

Finance director Mike Jones said there would be no full-scale alterations to the building and the application was only being lodged to enable a change of use for the building.

"The building will be used for extra storage, office space and meeting rooms. It will also free up space in the main centre that we can use for a staff room. It will just give us more room to breathe," said Mr Jones.

The building has also been used by some high-profile guests this week, as it is serving as a Green Room for performers at the Women's Arts International Festival.