The next phase of improvements on Maryport’s promenade is underway.
Construction teams have started work on Sea Brow Gardens and the curved landscaped area to the north of the former toilet block which is, this Summer, destined to become Maryport’s new café and beach shop.
The railings at Sea Brown Gardens are in the process of being replaced. Landscaping all around this area is now being enhanced. The pathways are being widened and resurfaced and new seating and bins being installed. The raised flowerbeds will also be cleared and repaired.
The work is being carried out by Carlisle-based Kirkaldy & Roe Ltd and is being made possible by the Government’s Future High Streets Fund.
In addition, ageing rusted railings on the main promenade have been replaced. The work was arranged and funded by Cumberland Council and carried out by local firm, Shane Taylor Welding Ltd. There will be a rolling programme on the remaining railings when funding allows. The new rails are made of galvanised steel which has a longer life span than conventional steel against coastal weather conditions.
These improvements are just part of a scheme which will transform the promenade and harbourside. A skate park is also being created on the opposite side of the new café to this garden area.
Down on the harbourside, now conveniently linked to the prom by the new Boardwalk, an event space is being created, the Shiver Me Timbers play park is being updated, and a splash park built. The Wave, now renamed Maryport Activity Centre, is also undergoing a massive upgrade. All of these new facilities - part of a £12 million regeneration project - are due to open later this year.
Meanwhile, all around the town, new signage is being installed. The colourful finger posts, and map monoliths featuring work by Maryport artist Alan Roper, will soon point visitors to all the main attractions.
The latest promenade landscaping works are expected to take around a month. Small areas of green space will be closed off at each stage to ensure public safety but the area will largely remain open to all.
The project is being managed by Cumberland Council and its Leader, Councillor Mark Fryer, said:
“There is so much good stuff going on in Maryport at the moment and it is brilliant to witness the changes taking place. These are all small steps towards the town’s major transformation and they are encouraging to see.”