A planning application for the transformation of the venue is submitted by Barrow Council.

Cumbria University's campus will run courses in manufacturing, computing, cyber security and logistics.

The eight-strong team could also be kitted out with radios and made-to-measure protective armour.

A council approves plans for the scheme on Walney but it now needs government support.

An animal rights group raised concerns about the welfare of animals at Safari Zoo Cumbria in 2022.

The facility would replace the use of natural gas and diesel in manufacturing, it is claimed.

The three-storey building will have a roof garden and parking for 17 cars.

Councillors supported it subject to issues around drainage, parking and accessibility.