Cumberland Council has submitted a planning application for a new external lighting scheme at the historic Workington Hall in Curwen Park.
The proposals would introduce carefully designed, low-level lighting to improve safety, accessibility and the visitor experience, while protecting the Hall's historic character and surrounding environment.
The scheme will replace existing floodlighting with discreet, ground-mounted uplighters positioned around the Hall. These lights will gently illuminate the lower sections of the building using a warm, low-intensity glow, allowing the landmark to be appreciated after dark without overpowering its setting.
Protecting wildlife has been a central consideration throughout the design. The lighting will only operate during the darker, colder months and will switch off by 10.30pm each evening, helping to minimise any impact on bats and other species.
The design has also been developed to reduce light spill, with lighting focused solely on the Hall itself and carefully controlled to avoid surrounding parkland and sensitive habitats.
Minimal groundworks will be required to install the equipment, with all works carefully managed due to the Hall’s historic significance.
Leader of Cumberland Council, Councillor Mark Fryer, said:
“I am very pleased that we have now been able to submit the planning application for this important scheme. Workington Hall is a key historic asset for the town, and this sensitive lighting will help people better appreciate it while improving safety and accessibility for those visiting the park.
“This is another positive step forward for Workington, building on the wider regeneration work already taking place. By investing in projects like this, we are helping to enhance our local assets, support the visitor experience and create places that people can be proud of.”
The project forms part of the wider Workington Gateway programme, which is delivering improvements to connectivity, public spaces and visitor experience across the town, supported by £33 million of government investment.
Subject to planning approval, Cumberland Council will progress the next stages of the project, ensuring the scheme continues to be delivered in a way that respects and enhances the Hall's historic setting.
