A major visitor centre could be built just off the M6 near Kendal.

The South Lakes Gateway would provide information on tourist attractions in the area, and also showcase local farming produce.

The gateway would be similar in approach to Rheged - acting as a staging post for incoming visitors.

However the idea is still at an early stage and needs to win approval from the planning authorities.

Auction mart

It would be built next to the Westmorland Showground, which would require new access roads.

The project could include a hotel, a relocated Kendal auction mart, and a marina on the nearby Lancaster canal.

South Lakelands council has said the scheme has potential, but it still needs planning permission to build in open countryside.