Cumberland Council has approved funding to move forward with the Iron Line project in Millom, marking a significant step in one of the Millom Town Deal’s ambitious regeneration initiatives.
At a meeting of the Council’s executive committee on Thursday (11 September) in Whitehaven, councillors agreed to award the stage two construction contract for the Iron Line project. The contract, valued at £7.1 Million plus VAT, has been awarded to Story Construction. The Executive decision is subject to call-in.
This will be subject to the planning application and agreement for lease for the planned visitor centre, which will be considered by Cumberland Council’s Planning Committee. If approved, construction is expected to begin later this year, with delivery aligned to environmental seasons and funding milestones.
The Iron Line will transform the existing Hodbarrow Reserve and former railway line into a 7.5km fully accessible walking and cycling route, enhanced with new public art, cultural features, and a community-led visitor centre. The scheme aims to celebrate Millom and Haverigg’s natural beauty, heritage, and community spirit while boosting health, wellbeing, and local pride.
The new visitor centre will feature a café, group learning and event space, accessible toilets, and volunteer facilities – serving as a welcoming hub for locals and visitors.
As well as providing improved access to nature, the Iron Line is expected to attract visitors, stimulate the local economy, and create a lasting legacy for the community.
David Savage, the Chair of the Millom Town Deal Board welcomed the news:
“This is another step forward on the Town Deal Journey, with further decisions and approvals to be in place before we can actively get on with delivering this exciting project. The Iron Line brings new opportunities, jobs and the potential to bring in further investment into our town”
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer added:
“The approval of funding for the Iron Line project represents a significant investment in Millom’s future. This decision underlines Cumberland Council’s commitment to driving sustainable regeneration, strengthening our visitor economy, and delivering high-quality infrastructure that benefits residents and attracts new opportunities to the area.”
The Millom Town Deal includes four major projects, supported by £20.6 million of Government funding and a further £8.7 million in match contributions. Together, these initiatives are transforming the future of Millom and Haverigg—enhancing health and wellbeing, creating new economic opportunities, and strengthening connections with the area’s unique natural environment.
For more information and updates, please visit: www.millomtowndeal.org.uk