An £11.5 million bid to improve Maryport has been provisionally accepted by the Government.
An announcement today said the town was offered a provisional offer of £11,527,839 as part of the Future High Streets Fund initiative.
It is one of 57 areas named and the Government said it will work with them all to finalise their proposals.
The fund’s aim is to renew and reshape town centres and high streets in a way that drives growth, improve its experience and ensures future sustainability.
Local leaders welcomed the news from the government that the bid, which had been devised by Allerdale Borough Council with partners, local businesses and residents.
The multi-million-pound scheme is set to transform Maryport town centre.
Allerdale council will now work with the government, local leaders and members of the community to finalise its plans.
Original ideas have included a revamp for the Wave Centre, bringing The Carlton building back into use and converting the iconic Christ Church building into a museum and gallery space.
The original submission also included designs to make improvements to the public realm areas of the town, such as widening footpaths and installing more seating areas, and the creation of a space for a market and community activities.
It also included plans to help to address the number of empty units in the town centre.
Mike Johnson, deputy leader with responsibility for economic growth, community development and placemaking, said: “This is fabulous news for Maryport and a real testament to the quality of our bid.
“I’d like to thank all the officers, fellow councillors, partners as well as the local business community and residents for their hard work and support.
“We’ll now get cracking on working with the government to develop the projects further and start making real improvements to this great coastal town.”
The council was helped by a team of architects and consultants from Buttress, with extensive consultation from the public.
The council was also recently successful in its bid to the Heritage England’s Heritage Action Zone funding pot which will see an additional £1.2m invested into the town.
Mark Jenkinson, Workington MP, said: “I am delighted that the town has received this money which will enable a number of investments into various projects to improve the high street.
“I am very much looking forward to seeing these projects commence which will provide a real boost to the town of Maryport – a big stepping stone as we continue our levelling up agenda.”
