Whitehaven residents and businesses are once again 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 another public drop-in event on Tuesday 24 March 2026 between 2pm and 7pm at the Civic Hall, Whitehaven. The event is open to all.
Following on from the event last year Cumberland Council is now in a position to share a new vision for the town and the set of principles that will underpin the new plan and the future development of the town, these include:
• Celebrating heritage and waterfront identity
• Rebalance movement to put people first - i.e. reducing vehicular dominance and prioritising pedestrians, cyclists, and public transport to strengthen connections across the town.
• Activate the harbour and town centre – ie. animating the harbour and town centre through active ground-floor uses, flexible public spaces, and a broader range of activities to support footfall and strengthen town centre vitality.
• Define Whitehaven’s identity as a coastal destination
• Support Employment, Learning and Sustainable Living
• Enhance Public Realm and Green Infrastructure
Deputy Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Emma Williamson, has been leading on the development of the Masterplan, said:
“We have a bold vision for Whitehaven, but we also want the input of local residents and businesses.
“Whether you are a local resident, worker, business owner, or visitor, we want to hear what you have to say about the future of the town.
“It’s not just about buildings or infrastructure, but about community, belonging, and a sense of pride in Whitehaven.
"Please do join us and have your say.”
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.
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.