Cumberland Council is updating residents and businesses on important milestones for two major regeneration projects in Workington: The Town Centre Public Realm and Connectivity Project and Workington Gateway.
The council has secured over £33 million in central government funding to drive economic development and regeneration in Workington. This investment will be used to make improvements to the public realm in the town centre, strengthen transport links and connectivity, support growth in the manufacturing and clean energy sectors, support local business growth and entrepreneurship and deliver new and improved sports facilities.
The Town Centre Public Realm and Connectivity and Workington Gateway projects are part of a wider regeneration programme that also includes the Innovation Centre, Port of Workington Logistics and Energy Hub, new cycleways, activities in Hall Park, and the proposed Cumberland Sports Village.
Cllr Mark Fryer, Leader of Cumberland Council, said:
“This is an exciting new chapter for Workington. These projects are not just about improving roads, buildings, and public spaces, they are about creating opportunities, attracting investment, and making our town an even better place to live, work, and visit. We are committed to working closely with the community and local businesses every step of the way to ensure these plans bring the greatest possible benefits for the area.
“I would encourage residents and business owners to come along to the drop-in session and meet the contractor event. These are a great opportunity to find out exactly how the plans might affect you, raise any concerns, and discuss specific business or access needs directly with the project team and contractors. Your input will help us deliver the best outcomes for everyone in Workington.”
Details and timings for the projects are as follows:
Workington Town Centre Public Realm and Connectivity Project
Total investment: £3 million (funded through the Town Deal). This project will transform Workington’s town centre into a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly environment that encourages footfall and private investment.
- From Monday 4 August, early site access for the contractor, Thomas Armstrong Limited
Monday 1 September, main construction work will commence on Murray Road. Please note that Murray Road will be closed overnight for several nights; however, it will remain open during the daytime throughout the duration of the project.
Workington Gateway Project
Total investment: £10 million (supported by central government). This project focuses on improving key transport routes and unlocking growth for the town. It includes major upgrades at Ramsay Brow and Hall Brow, with aims to reduce congestion, enhance road safety, and improve pedestrian and cycling access to Hall Park and Workington Hall.
Upcoming roadworks (in partnership with National Highways):
- Friday 12 September, 8pm to Monday 14 September, 6am: A66 closure at Ramsay Brow for utilities diversion
- Friday 19 September, 8pm to Monday 21 September, 6am: A66 closure continues
- W/c Monday 22 September to the end of the project (March 2026), Ramsay Brow junction works with three-way lights begin (removal of traffic islands, signals, etc.)
- Friday 26 September, 8pm to Monday 28 September, 6am: Additional full weekend closure
- Friday 3 October to Monday 6 October: Contingency closure (if required)
Ramsay Brow is anticipated to be finalised in March 2026.
Further enhancements in Hall Park are scheduled for January to April 2026, and design work is underway for a new cycleway linking the town centre with Workington Academy via Hall Park. More information and updates will be shared as the project progresses.
Please also note that construction will pause for a festive break, allowing teams to spend time with their families, from Friday 19 December 2025 until Monday 5 January 2026. Work will resume as scheduled after the break.
During the Ramsay Brow roadworks, Stagecoach X4/X5 services will not serve stops on Ramsay Brow, Stainburn and Clifton during the closures. This will take place over three consecutive weekends, starting Friday 12 September at 8.00pm until 6.00am each Monday. For full details please visit Stagecoach website.
To ensure residents and businesses are informed and involved, the council will host the following events:
- Public Drop-in at Workington Market – Wednesday 20 August from 10am to 4pm
The project team will attend the popular Workington Market to showcase the plans and timelines for the regeneration projects. Residents, visitors, and local businesses will have the opportunity to view display materials and speak directly with the team. The event will allow attendees to learn more about how the works might affect them and gain a better understanding of the improvements underway.
- Meet the Contractor Event – Thursday 28 August, at the Carnegie Theatre, Finkle Street, Workington CA14 2BD from 2pm to 6.30pm
This event will bring together the main contractors involved in the regeneration work. Representatives from Story Contracting Ltd will be available to discuss the Workington Gateway Project, while Thomas Armstrong Ltd will provide information on the Town Centre Public Realm and Connectivity Project. Attendees will be able to meet the people delivering the improvements, hear directly about the construction process and timelines, and ask any questions. Attendees can engage with the contractors, discuss any specific needs related to business deliveries, and address other concerns residents might have.
For more information about Workington’s regeneration projects, please visit the Cumberland Council website at www.cumberland.gov.uk/regeneration
To receive regular updates direct to your inbox, you can also sign up for the Workington Regeneration Newsletter by emailing: WorkingtonTownscape@cumberland.gov.uk
