WORK is ongoing in the demolition of a historic Workington nightlife venue, as the council embarks on an ambitious plan as part of the Workington Gateway project.

The Henry Curwen pub on Ramsay Brow, which dates back to the 18th century, is being demolished to make way for the £10million Workington Gateway project - with work beginning on the pub back in August.

Last week, contractors started to take apart the historic building, with the roof now being taken off the pub.

The demolition of the building has been a hot topic in the town, with many having fond memories of the establishment.

Workers carrying out the demolition work.Workers carrying out the demolition work. (Image: NQ staff)

At the start of the demolition back in August, many throughout the town shared their memories of the venue, which was a staple of any night out in Workington for decades.

Hospitality owner Paul McGee bought the popular venue back in 2015, renaming it Henry’s and becoming its last owner.

He said: “I loved the pub. Of all the places I have had or have got now Henry’s is the place where, if I had the choice, I would have that back now and just that.”

The front of the building.The front of the building. (Image: NQ staff)

Through its lifetime, the well-loved town venue has had a number of names: The Henry Curwen, The Curwen Arms, The Sportsman and latterly Henry's - with everyone in the town having their own special memories of it.

A view from the back of the building.A view from the back of the building. (Image: NQ staff)

The demolition of the building is not expected to cause disruption to drivers within the town, with a small section of footpath, located adjacent to the site, temporarily closed during the knock-down.

Removal of the building will ease a 'pinch point' where the A66 and A596 meet, freeing up access for HGVs and other large vehicles.

A view from the side of the building.A view from the side of the building. (Image: NQ staff)

The main objective of the Workington Gateway project is to reduce journey times to key employment sites in north Workington and reduce the impact of HGV traffic on nearby communities.

Speaking at the start of the demolition, Councillor Denise Rollo, Cumberland Council's executive member for sustainable, resilient and connected places, said: "This is an important scheme for the town in terms of future-proofing our transport networks and growing the west Cumbrian economy."