Whitehaven residents and businesses are being given the opportunity to have their say on how they think the town should grow and thrive in the future.
Cumberland Council has organised a public drop-in event on Tuesday 5 August between 2pm and 7pm at the United Reform Church, James Street, Whitehaven, CA28 7HZ. The event is open to all.
A masterplan is being developed for the town and the event will be the first chance to find out more about the plans and have your say.
Deputy Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Emma Williamson, has been leading on the development of the Masterplan, she said:
“We are working on a vision and masterplan for the future of Whitehaven town centre, but we can’t do it without the involvement and input of local residents and businesses. Help us shape the future of the town.
“Whether you are a local resident, worker, business owner, or visitor, we want to understand what you feel Whitehaven town centre needs to make it a better place to live, work, shop and visit.
“We want to build on the positive steps already taken to improve the town centre and we’re putting in place a clear timeline to turn local priorities into action.
“It’s not just about buildings or infrastructure, but about community, belonging, and a sense of pride in Whitehaven.
"This is just the beginning of a longer conversation. So, get involved and play your part.”
Since Cumberland Council was established in 2023 more than £2.45 million funding has been invested in Whitehaven through Cumberland Council, UK Shared Prosperity Fund, Copeland Community Fund and Sellafield Social Impact funding.
There has also been investment of time and resources on deep cleaning, parks and maintenance, and environmental enforcement.
The Whitehaven Masterplan will set a bold, strategic direction for the town’s future.
With the involvement of the town’s residents and businesses, the plan will focus on three core areas:
• Energising the harbour
• Enhancing the public realm; and
• Revitalising the historic centre.
The aim is to create a thriving, sustainable Whitehaven that celebrates its history while embracing a dynamic future.
Whitehaven Masterplan will:
• 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.