The money, part of a Government pledge to aid economic recovery from the Covid-19 pandemic, has come from accelerated funding through the Towns Fund programme.

Workington will soon be bidding for up to £25m from the Towns Fund for a number of regeneration projects with a public consultation being launched today (Friday, September 25), running for two weeks. It can be accessed at https://www.allerdale.gov.uk/en/workington/workington-town-deal-public-consultation/ 

However, the Government invited bids from all shortlisted towns for some immediate funding for projects that can be completed by in the current financial year. 

In Workington, it is proposed to use the £750,000 funding to:

• Create a dedicated cycleway through the underpass between Central Way and the Brow Top car park, improve lighting and introduce Workington-themed artwork to the walls of the underpass to make it more attractive for users. 
• Make public realm improvements to the Cloffocks area near Workington Leisure Centre by creating an outdoor events and activity area. This will include new pathways for walking and jogging, a new paved area to create a suitable space for a mobile big screen for public viewing of major events and high-quality outdoor gym equipment. 
• Support the proposed demolition and redevelopment of the former Opera House site in the town centre. 

Cllr Mike Johnson, Deputy Leader of Allerdale Borough Council, the lead authority on Workington’s Towns Fund bid, said:

“This very welcome funding will allow to make some really important improvements to areas of the town centre and we believe these will be well-received by local residents and visitors. 

“The Town Deal board and Council are keen to make Workington an even better place to live, work and visit and these schemes will support the ambitious plans which we hope to make a reality through the Government’s Towns Fund programme.”