A bid to revitalise Maryport’s historic harbourside is set to be approved by councillors this week.
Members of Cumberland Council’s planning committee have been recommended to give the go-ahead to the proposals, which include a new public event space, on a piece of grassland next to the aquarium and the Shiver me Timbers play area.
It features a purpose-built stage for live entertainment with amphitheatre-style banking where the audience can sit.
There will also be a bar created from repurposed shipping containers, market stall spaces and a marquee space which will be flexible for different events.
The use of the land would be for events such as outdoor markets and local festivals to support Cumberland’s cultural programme, a report to councillors said.
Events would be restricted to no more than three in any one calendar month – a total of no more than 36 events a year – and the hours of use would be restricted to between 9am and 10.30pm.
A total of two letters of support have been received and one letter of objection. The letter of objection raises concerns regarding the impact on neighbouring
residents in relation to noise and upkeep of the area.
The report said: “In terms of general clearance during and after events this would form part of the agreement with the event’s organiser and the host.”
The report added that the stage area would be positioned to face away from neighbouring properties to the north of the site, which would reduce travel of noise.
The marquee and market area would be located centrally within the site and the bar area to the north west corner.
Cumberland Council is behind the scheme for the outdoor events area, as part of a £12 million regeneration of Maryport. The money for the harbourside improvements is being provided through the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.
The planning committee meets tomorrow, Wednesday July 17.
