Plans for Maryport Wave Centre £2.3m revamp get go-ahead

Controversial plans to revamp to Maryport’s Wave Centre has been approved by Cumberland Council.

Part of a multi-million-pound investment project which aims to revitalise the town’s high street, harbourside and promenade, plans for the Wave Centre include a new adventure play centre for young children, improvements to the Clip n’ Climb attraction, new multi-purpose studio spaces, a community meeting space, party rooms and a better gym.

Outside there will be a new bike hub and landscaping. The entrance area will be improved and staff offices moved upstairs to free up space on the ground floor to make space for the new facilities.

Original plans included creating a swimming pool at the centre, but these were shelved by Cumberland Council, which is managing the Wave project, and Maryport’s wider investment, because it would have been unsustainable in the long-term.

The £2.3 million changes to The Wave are part of wider £5.2 million investment plans for Maryport which aim to enhance and develop three of its biggest assets – the town’s high street, harbour and promenade.

If all goes to plan, the developments will be completed by summer 2024.

Leader of Cumberland Council, Mark Fryer, said: “This is a bold step forwards in the next phase of Maryport’s transformation.

“Now it is the turn of the Wave to receive some investment. Local people told us they wanted more facilities for children and young people and that is a key part of what we will do next, at the Wave and on the prom and harbourside generally. We will be lodging more planning applications in January for a splash park, outdoor event space, an improved Shiver Me Timbers play area, and an amazing new promenade café and beach shop.

“We are already well ahead with the renovation of Christ Church and the Carlton, the new Shipping Brow Gallery is open and looking fantastic, all the Love Maryport Living residential scheme properties are now underway, the Boardwalk will be finished soon, and our shop front initiative has brightened up some key high street businesses. These are exciting times in Maryport.”

The new scheme for the Wave was created by architectural contractor Buttress.

Its associate architect Kimberley Corrall said: “Planning approval for The Wave represents a significant step forward in the commitment to revitalising the town’s community facilities and contributing to the broader regeneration efforts supported by the Future High Streets Fund.

“The Wave will play a pivotal role in transforming Maryport Town Centre, aligning with the vision for improved infrastructure, vibrant high streets, and sustained economic vitality.”