A £2.1 million transformation of key areas of Workington town centre has been revealed.
While the design will be finalised next month, it will include the reconfiguration of the Murray Road junction outside the town’s bus station and provide around 2,100 square metres of improved public space there, plus areas of Upton Street and Central Way.
The work will be carried out by Flimby-based Thomas Armstrong on behalf of Cumberland Council, and the contract for it is set to be signed off at the end of next month.
Work is scheduled to begin early in the new year and it is anticipated that any road closures will be required in the early spring.
The full programme of work should take 10 months to complete, with the new and improved areas fully reopened by autumn 2025.
The authority said it would complement other improvements taking place, like the Workington Gateway project at Ramsay Brow, Hall Brow and Hall Park.
Cumberland Council said: “New landscaping will make this important route into the main shopping area more attractive for those arriving from the direction of the railway station and transport hub.
“The area which links the pedestrianised shopping streets of Washington Square with Murray Road, around where the Argos store stands, will also receive a whole new look, tying these two key areas more cohesively together.
“Priority will be given to pedestrians, ensuring easy walking routes for those moving from one section of the town centre to the other.
“New seating and landscaping will give it a ‘pocket park’ feel, encouraging people to spend more time in the town.”
The project is funded by the Government.
Leader of Cumberland Council Mark Fryer said: “This is an important scheme for Workington town centre and is part of the £30 million of investment currently taking place here.
“Boosting the economy of Cumberland is an important priority for the council. We want people to seek out our towns for their individual characteristics and Workington’s reputation as the west coast’s retail hub means we have to keep giving people a reason to visit, shop, eat and drink, and enjoy being here. Keeping this as a vibrant and pleasant place to be is a big part of that, which is why these improvements to the public realm are very welcome.”
