Workington MP Mark Jenkinson has welcomed news that the £10 million Workington Gateway project has moved a step closer.
Mr Jenkinson said he had lobbied the Government for investment in the scheme – even before he became Workington MP.
The work will be paid for by the Government’s Levelling Up Fund and National Highways.
Ramsay Brow junction currently restricts the length of vehicles that can pass through and so wagons travelling to the Port of Workington have to drive through residential neighbourhoods.
Cumberland Council said the improvement of the junction will reduce the impact of wagons, shorten journey times, and improve freight access to key industrial sites in the north Workington area.
The project will also deliver pedestrian and cycling improvements in Hall Park and complements plans for a new Social Enterprise Centre in the park’s walled garden, including horticulture, café and training facilities operated by West House.
Mr Jenkinson said: “I have championed these changes since prior to my election, and it formed part of my plan for the Workington constituency.
“This is part of a much wider £10m scheme that looks at the Hall Brow pinchpoint, and flood resilience on Hall Brow. It also brings in upgraded walking and cycling routes through Hall Park, increasing accessibility and footfall, and brings the walled garden in the park back into use.
“I was delighted to be able to lobby for this to be funded.
“These vital improvements will encourage more HGVs to use the A595 to instead of driving through towns and villages along the A596. Crucially, it will open up access to the port and Oldside industrial park on the north side of the river – works which have themselves been funded through the Government’s multi-million-pound Town Deal.
“The scheme will reduce congestion on Washington Street (A596) and make it easier for people to access the town centre. Finally, it will connect Washington Square and Murray Road retail hub with the historic quarter of the town, including Hall Park, and Grade I-listed Workington Hall.”
