A MAJOR project for the regeneration of Workington town centre has taken a step forward with a funding boost of £10million.

Cumberland Council leader Mark Fryer hailed the project as ‘exciting’ for Workington, as the organisation announced the £10million investment boost for Workington’s transport, culture and regeneration.

Cumberland Council is delivering a new initiative, the Workington Gateway Project - funded by the Levelling Up Fund (LUF) and National Highways - to enhance the junction at Ramsey Brow and widen the A596 at Hall Brow to improve safety and help to develop the Workington’s economy.

On Tuesday, August 8 the council submitted a planning application for the demolition of the former Curwen Arms public house, which has been a prominent building in the town throughout the decades.

The council says that the demolition of the building is needed to widen the Ramsay Brow junction, which currently restricts the length of vehicles that can pass through.

In addition to causing safety concerns, this directs wagons through residential neighbourhoods.

The improvement of the junction will 'reduce the impact of wagons, shorten journey times, and improve freight access to key industrial sites' in the north Workington area.

The project will also deliver pedestrian and cycling improvements in Hall Park, encouraging people to enjoy the park on their cycles and providing an alternative route to school or town.

This complements plans for a new Social Enterprise Centre in the park’s Walled Garden, including horticulture, café and training facilities operated by West House.

Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said: “This is an exciting project for Workington, addressing a longstanding pinch point on our trunk road network.

"It will improve air quality and lower carbon emissions by reducing waiting and journey times.

"It will benefit communities close to the A596 who are currently affected by freight wagons.

“I am delighted to see the plans extend into Hall Park. This will help maximise the use and enjoyment of this recreational asset, encouraging more people to walk and cycle safely to work, to school or to enjoy the fantastic facilities our town has to offer.”