Views sought on Workington revamp

Cumbria County Council has begun a consultation on plans for improving traffic links in the town centre.

The consultation will run from Thursday 27 October to Sunday 13 November.

The consultation will give people the opportunity to have their say on plans for the Murray Road/Central Way gateway to Workington town centre.

CCC has already undertaken preliminary talks with businesses. The county council has worked with Allerdale Council to secure £4m of backing as part of the £23.1m Workington Town Deal package.

The project aims to improve the look and feel of this area with wider footways, new seating, greening and signage, creating a more welcoming gateway to the town centre.

Ultimately, the goal is to encourage higher footfall, increase dwelling time, stimulate private investment and support the financial viability of the town centre.

Cllr Keith Little, CCC cabinet member for highways and transport, said: “This is fantastic news for Workington and the proposals will help to enhance the town centre, making it more vibrant and welcoming, and I would like to thank everyone for their help and involvement so far.

“I would encourage members of the local community to attend one of the drop-in sessions, or view the consultation online, so that we can listen to and understand their views.”

Cllr Anthony Markley, chairman of the local area committee for Allerdale, said: “It’s great to have secured investment for this part of town, where environmental enhancements will benefit pedestrians, the businesses and their customers.

“Proposals are still in the early stages of development, and we want to gather people’s views and ideas to help us shape plans as they progress”

“I’d encourage everyone to take a look at the consultation material, either at the library or online, and give us their feedback. This will help us to make sure we design a scheme that fits the needs of future users, as well as the objectives for the town.”

There will be a display at Workington Library from Friday 28 October, and drop-in sessions at the library that day and at Street Markets on Central Way on 2 November and 9 November. You can also find out more information about the project by visiting the consultation website: cumbria.gov.uk/WorkingtonTownDeal.