The £5 million Edge has officially opened in Whitehaven.
The new facility on the town’s harbourside features 16 en suite bedrooms, cafe and bar, public toilets, meeting rooms and a small stage area.
On the site of the old Wellington Inn, the three-storey building is owned by Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners – a not-for-profit organisation that manages and maintains the harbour and its environs – and operated by local hospitality specialists Osprey Management Group.
Osprey will run the hospitality, accommodation and associated operations, while the harbour commissioners will work with independent specialists and organisations to offer a range of watersports and cultural and community activities.
Craig Lowery, managing director of Osprey, said: “The Edge is an exciting and unique project in a wonderful location, literally on the edge of the harbour.
“We are proud to be involved in this unique and exciting project which we are sure will benefit the visitor economy and the people of West Cumbria.
“We are looking forward to continuing our commitment to provide job opportunities to local people and also welcoming guests to The Edge.”
Deanne Shallcross, chief executive of Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners, said: “It’s been a long time coming but it feels amazing to finally open the doors to the public and to hear such positive reactions from the first groups of users.
“With Osprey as the main operator, and by working with various activity specialists, our aim is to build a financially sustainable centre with long-term social, economic and health benefits for the local area and beyond.”
