A major multi-million-pound development in Millom has been given the go-ahead.
Cumberland Council’s planning committee gave their backing to an updated application for the Iron Line, a visitor centre.
The updated application replaced the previous submission made in 2023 and was shaped by feedback from the local community, key stakeholders, and statutory consultees, the council said.
The committee delegated final planning approval to the service manager for development and implementation – subject to agreement of further ecological information.
The revised plans improve protection to environmentally sensitive areas to the site and remain true to the original vision of creating an inspiring, accessible coastal route around the Hodbarrow Nature Reserve.
The Iron Line is a flagship project for the Millom Town Deal programme, which is investing more than £29 million Government and partners’ funding into the local area.
The new visitor centre will feature:
- A community food and drink space.
- A multi-use space for events, exhibitions, and learning.
- Toilets and changing facilities, including Changing Places provision.
- Space for volunteers, groups, and nature-based education.
Other features include:
- Improved and new walking and cycling paths.
- A single car park with improved access around the visitor centre.
- New art installations inspired by Millom’s culture and landscape.
- Development of the Townsley Windmill as a heritage focal point.
- Additional trees planted to enhance the environment.
- Sensitive wildlife-viewing areas designed.
David Savage, chair of the Millom Town Deal Board, said: “We’re incredibly proud of what the Iron Line represents.
“It showcases the natural beauty of our coastline while creating real benefits for local people.
“From new jobs to a vibrant visitor centre, this is a project that celebrates our place and supports our future.”
The RSPB is the landowner of Hodbarrow Reserve and has been a partner in the Iron Line project since its inception, working closely with Cumberland Council helping to advise on all aspects of ecology and ensuring that the project will benefit wildlife as well as people.
The planned new visitor centre next to RSPB Hodbarrow will introduce people to the special habitats and species, such as Little Terns, Small Blue Butterflies and Bee Orchids visitors can see whilst exploring the nature reserve.
Mhairi Maclauchlan, RSPB Cumbria coastal reserves manager, said: “Iron Line represents an exciting opportunity to celebrate this hidden gem on the Cumbrian coast and enhance the offer for both visitors and local people to enjoy.
“It’s a great opportunity to enhance Cumbria’s tourism offer still further and bring in new audiences, managed carefully for both nature and people.”
Construction is likely to begin later this year.
