A drop-in session will be held today for people to share their views about the future of Whitehaven.
Cumberland Council said it had developed a vision for the West Cumbrian town and wants to know what people think about how it can thrive.
The drop-in will take place at the civic hall in Whitehaven today, Tuesday, March 24, between 2pm and 7pm.
It follows an event last year and the authority said it was now in a position to share a new vision for the town and the set of principles.
The vision will underpin a new masterplan and the future development of the town.
The vision includes:
- Celebrating heritage and waterfront identity
- Rebalancing movement to put people first – prioritising pedestrians, cyclists and public transport to strengthen connections across the town
- Activating the harbour and town centre – with the use of flexible public spaces, and a broader range of activities to support footfall and strengthen town centre vitality.
- Defining Whitehaven’s identity as a coastal destination
- Supporting employment, learning and sustainable living
- Enhancing public realm and green infrastructure
Deputy leader of Cumberland Council Emma Williamson, has been leading on the development of the Masterplan.
She said: “We have a bold vision for Whitehaven, but we also want the input of local residents and businesses.
“Whether you are a local resident, worker, business owner, or visitor, we want to hear what you have to say about the future of the town.
“It’s not just about buildings or infrastructure, but about community, belonging, and a sense of pride in Whitehaven “Please do join us and have your say.”
Cumberland Council said the Whitehaven Masterplan would set a bold, strategic direction for the town’s future.
It said the Whitehaven Masterplan would:
- Set out the case for investment in Whitehaven to support economic growth and the ambitions of the town and region.
- Identify how we connect the harbour and town centre and improve transport management and access.
- Support the redevelopment of our heritage assets, with a particular focus on King Street.
- Establish a set of investment opportunities to support local priorities.
- Set out a ‘quick win’ programme of deliverable activities that will support the activation and attractiveness, vitality and use of the town centre, including the role of partners and partnership in achieving this.
