The Iron Line project in Millom and Haverigg has reached another key milestone after Cumberland Council’s Planning Committee (Wednesday 25 February 2026) resolved to support the new planning application.
The updated application replaced the previous submission made in 2023 and was actively shaped by feedback from the local community, key stakeholders, and statutory consultees.
Cumberland Council’s Planning Committee delegated the final planning approval to the Service Manager for Development and Implementation - subject to agreement of further ecological info.
The revised plans improve protection to environmentally sensitive areas to the site and remain true to the original vision of creating an inspiring, accessible coastal route around the Hodbarrow Nature Reserve.
The Iron Line is a flagship project for the Millom Town Deal programme, which is investing more than £29 million Government and partners’ funding into the local area. The Iron Line will transform the sea wall and surrounding landscape into a space that promotes walking, cycling, nature, and heritage.
The new visitor centre will feature:
A community food and drink space.
- A multi-use space for events, exhibitions, and learning.
- Toilets and changing facilities, including Changing Places provision.
- Space for volunteers, groups, and nature-based education.
Other features include:
- Improved and new walking and cycling paths.
- A single car park with improved access around the visitor centre.
- New art installations inspired by Millom’s culture and landscape.
- Development of the Townsley Windmill as a heritage focal point.
- Additional trees planted to enhance the environment.
- Sensitive wildlife-viewing areas designed.
Cumberland Council continues to work closely with statutory consultees and local stakeholders to ensure the Iron Line supports biodiversity, enhances public access to nature, and strengthens the local economy.
David Savage, Chair of the Millom Town Deal Board, said:
“We’re incredibly proud of what the Iron Line represents. It showcases the natural beauty of our coastline while creating real benefits for local people. From new jobs to a vibrant visitor centre, this is a project that celebrates our place and supports our future.”
Leader of Cumberland Council, Cllr Mark Fryer, said:
“This is another significant step forward for this important project. We look forward to working with partners to ensure its successful delivery.”
Cumbria’s south-west coast is in the beautiful and less discovered district of Copeland and yet only minutes away from the Lake District National Park.
The RSPB is the landowner of Hodbarrow Reserve and has been a partner in the Iron Line project since its inception, working closely with Cumberland Council helping to advise on all aspects of ecology and ensuring that the project will benefit wildlife as well as people.
The planned new visitor centre adjacent to RSPB Hodbarrow will introduce people to the special habitats and species, such as Little Terns, Small Blue Butterflies and Bee Orchids visitors can see whilst exploring the nature reserve.
Mhairi Maclauchlan, RSPB Cumbria Coastal Reserves Manager, said:
“Iron Line represents an exciting opportunity to celebrate this hidden gem on the Cumbrian coast and enhance the offer for both visitors and local people to enjoy. It’s a great opportunity to enhance Cumbria’s tourism offer still further and bring in new audiences, managed carefully for both nature and people.”
Construction is expected to begin later this year, with delivery aligned to environmental seasons and funding milestones.
Further updates, including operator procurement for the new visitors centre and café, will be shared over the coming months.
For more information about the Iron Line and other Millom Town Deal projects, visit: www.millomtowndeal.org.uk.
